Vitamin C + other Micronutrients and AUTISM

Scurvy, though very much a disease of the past, still plays a part in the health of people around the world.  Scurvy is classically caused by a severe lack of vitamin C intake in the patient.  Vitamin C deficiency at levels far below those that cause scurvy can and are causing multiple health problems.  In centuries past, sailors were the one who suffered from Scurvy.  Today, those who suffer from this severe vitamin C deficiency are often the people who have a highly restrictive diet excluding foods containing this ultra important micronutrient.  

Young children with Autism can be extremely picky about the foods they eat.  In some cases, three of which are detailed in the below linked article, this can result in severe micronutrient deficiencies, including vitamin C.  This subclinical lack of vitamin C, while not reaching the level of deficiency necessary to cause scurvy, is causing a host of other problems including joint pain, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, easy bruising, lack of appetite, fatigue, and many other issues.  If left untreated, this condition will reach the level of scurvy and ultimately death. 

Doctors and parents/guardians of children with Autism are learning this condition has far reaching impacts on many facets of the childrens' lives, including their physical and mental health.  Finding a way to ensure these children have the proper nutrition is not only absolutely necessary to maintain their health, it is also absolutely necessary in treatment of this disorder.

If this post has made you more curious about the effects of micronutrient deficiencies and how proper nutrition is being used to treat patients with Autism please see this article and this summary for more information.