Autism and Vitamin D

Autism

Autism rates have risen 1:10,000 children 30 years ago to now 1:50 according to the Centre for Disease Control. That’s a jump of 20,000%. Horrifying statistics.

Among many other possible causes of autism, new researchers into autism are showing that children and mothers of autistic children are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cancer diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis and now autism

Researchers believe Vitamin D increases production of serotonin which is a chemical neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, sleep, blood clotting, digestion, memory and other functions. It is also necessary for normal brain development. Serotonin is critical to brain cell growth and a shortage may lead to symptoms of autism such as lack of impulse control and inability to develop socialization skills.

Why such a drop in Vitamin D levels? Vitamin D is utilized in the body with the help of the sun and I believe we are so paranoid about covering up from the sun and the slip slop slap routine that children and adults are getting very little sun on the skin. Could this exacerbate the deficiency?

Some tips to increase your vitamin D levels are

1. Get 20 minutes of sunlight each day with arms and legs exposed. Best times between 10am – 3pm
2. Increase intake of foods high in Vit D – anchovies, salmon. Eggs, mushrooms. Grass fed beef, liver and pork
3. Take Vitamin D supplement. At least 5000iu daily

Contact: Elaine Stoeckel – 0411 744 979 or email