Australian researchers have identified a link between low vitamin D levels at the 20 week pregnancy mark and children born with Autistic traits. The results of this research has led to an increased use of vitamin D supplements among pregnant women. Also of note, researchers do not recommend that pregnant women seek increased vitamin D by further exposing themselves to the sun, as exposure to the sun comes with its own negative health consequences. Researchers acknowledge that although a vitamin D deficiency is likely only one potential cause of Autistic traits in children, it is a valuable discovery to health science. Vitamin D deficiency is also linked to schizophrenia, asthma, and reduced bone density. Vitamin D can be found in many different types of foods, and is also an important contributor to brain growth in babies and children.
Key Points:
- 1The important role vitamin D plays in early life is back in the spotlight after Australian researchers noticed a link between a deficiency during pregnancy and autism.
- 2The study found pregnant women with low vitamin D levels at 20 weeks’ gestation were more likely to have a child with autistic traits by the age of six.
- 3Vitamin D usually comes from exposure to the sun, but it can also be found in some foods and supplements.
The important role vitamin D plays in early life is back in the spotlight after Australian researchers noticed a link between a deficiency during pregnancy and autism.
Read the full article at: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/dec/14/autism-linked-to-vitamin-d-deficiency-during-pregnancy-researchers-find
Reply