Clinical Corner Winter 2017
Prenatal multivitamins linked to lower autism risk
A new study suggests prenatal multivitamins may reduce a child’s risk of developing autism. The study analyzed more than a quarter-million mother-child pairs in Sweden and found a link between multivitamin use and risk of the neurological disorder.
It’s estimated that 1 in ever 68 people in the United States has a form of autism, boys more than girls. And since mothers-to-be are already advised to take prenatal vitamins, this could be an added benefit.
“Multivitamin use with or without added iron or folic acid was associated with a lower likelihood of having a child with an intellectual disability, compared with mothers who did not use supplements,” said lead researcher Elizabeth DeVillbiss, a Ph.D. graduate in epidemiology and biostatistics at Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health. In fact, the odds of autism in the multivitamin group were 30 percent lower.
Autism, experts believe, is caused by genetic and environmental factors. It most likely starts in the womb, and the mother’s diet during pregnancy might have an influence, said DeVillbiss.
However’, it’s too early to recommend multivitamins specifically for lowering autism risk. The study couldn’t yield definitive cause and effect proof. It was observational and didn’t keep track of specific supplements taken, timing, and the doses. Plus, the results of other studies have been inconsistent.
Even so, it’s recommended that pregnant women take multivitamins- before and after pregnancy while they are still breast-feeding.
To read the full article, please visit https://drexel.edu/news/archive/2017/october/multivitamin-use-during-pregnancy-linked-to-lower-risk-of-autism-with-intellectual-disability
Together, we can unlock your child’s potential
Related News
10/09/2024
Understanding Your Child’s Rights in Iowa
A Guide for Parents of Children with Autism in Iowa In Iowa, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), children with autism are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) tailored to their needs. Key rights include receiving education in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and having active parental involvement in the development […]
10/09/2024
Elopement – What Is It? – Lighthouse Autism Center
Elopement is something often spoken about in the autism community. We look at what it is, how to prevent it, and what to do if your child tends to run out in the community or at home. Elopement – What Is It? We often hear the term elopement when talking about autistic children. Find out […]
10/08/2024
Importance of Early Autism Diagnoses
Our in-depth infographic explains the importance of early detection and diagnosis in autistic children. We also identify some of the early signs to look out for. INFOGRAPHIC: Why is Early Detection and Diagnosis So Important? What is Autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. […]