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Autism - Supplements
A child displaying odd behavior and impaired social skills may also be showing signs of autism. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Get some extra C
Reduce the severity of symptoms with vitamin C; take 1 gram for every 20 pounds (9 kg) of body weight per day
- Add B6 to the mix
With a doctor’s supervision, give your child 30 mg of vitamin B6 per 2.2 pounds (1 kg) of body weight every day to help reduce symptoms
- Try massage therapy
Visit a qualified therapist for 15 minutes of massage twice a week to improve behaviors and other symptoms of autism
- Uncover food sensitivities
Work with a qualified healthcare practitioner to find out if foods containing gluten and/or casein may be contributing to the problems associated with autism
Also indexed as:
- autism
About this treatment
What Are "Star" Ratings?
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Vitamin B6 | 30 mg daily per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight; doctor's supervision recommended | Research shows that vitamin B6 can be helpful for autistic children. |
| ||
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Glucosamine (Diarrhea) | 250 mg with morning and evening meals | Some autistic children suffer from chronic diarrhea. In one study, supplementing with glucosamine eliminated the diarrhea in five of six children with autism, possibly by blocking the effect of certain dietary components on the intestinal tract. |
| ||
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Vitamin C | 1 gram per 20 lbs (9 kg) body weight per day | In one trial, autistic children given vitamin C had less severe symptoms than those taking placebo, possibly because vitamin C affects a hormone pathway typically disturbed in children with autism. |
| ||
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Magnesium | Refer to label instructions | Some researchers have added magnesium to vitamin B6, reporting that taking both nutrients may have better effects than B6 alone. Doctors will often try this combination for at least three months to see whether these nutrients help autistic children. |
| ||
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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