Autism linked to lack of vitamin D during pregnancy, study finds

Could the answer to reducing the incidence of autism be as simple as pregnant women popping a vitamin D supplement?

That is the suggestion from a large study led by researchers at the Queensland Brain Institute.

An analysis of more than 4,000 blood samples from pregnant women and their children found those who were deficient in vitamin D had "significantly higher" scores on autism scales than those who had adequate vitamin D levels.

Lead author Professor John McGrath said the study found pregnant women with low vitamin D were more likely to have children with autistic traits by the age of six.


Professor McGrath said his research suggested that low vitamin D disrupts brain development.



He said the finding had important implications from a public health perspective.

The study examined 4,200 blood samples from pregnant women and their children, who were being monitored as part of the "Generation R" study in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Scientists found the link between low vitamin D and autism was strongest at mid-gestation and at the time of birth.

Vitamin D can be absorbed through the skin with sun exposure and is found in some fruits and vegetables.



Previous research by Professor McGrath has found a link between low vitamin D in babies' blood and an increased risk of schizophrenia.




"We know that genetic factors play a major role in the developmental pathways that may lead to autism."

Courtesy: ABC News
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