Supplements to Consider (and Avoid) for Kids with Autism

Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often struggle to eat a varied diet because of sensory issues, picky eating, or appetite changes. Because of this, they are at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies, and many turn to supplements to fill the nutritional gaps. One study found that 78% of kids with autism take some type of supplement (1). 

However, not all supplements are created equally. Each little one has different nutritional needs and it’s important to consult with your medical provider about which supplements are appropriate. In this post, we will review which supplements may be helpful and which ones should be avoided.

Why Supplements Can Be Helpful for ASD

Typical traits of autism includehyperreactivity or hyporeactivity, inflexible routines, resistance to chance, and extreme reactions to texture, smell, and taste (2). These challenges can translate into frequent food rejection and a very limited diet - putting them at risk for nutritional deficiencies. 

Beyond selective eating, many kids with ASD are also put on restrictive diets that cut out major food groups (gluten, dairy, sugar/carbohydrates, etc) in hopes of improving behavioral symptoms. However, these diets are not well supported by long-term research and often further limit food choices, increasing the risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Because of this, kids with ASD are naturally lower in some key nutrients like B vitamins, Vitamin D, Vitamin A, fiber, and Vitamin D (3). With limitations on their food intake, supplements may play a helpful role in supporting their nutrition.

How to Choose a Safe Supplement

The most important step before starting a supplement is to talk with your pediatrician. All kids with ASD are different, and supplement needs should be evaluated with your child’s medical history and current medications in mind. 

Your pediatrician can also help you prevent oversupplementing on unnecessary vitamins and minerals. This not only saves you money, but taking too much of certain vitamins can be harmful, especially with fat-soluble vitamins that build up in the body.

Once you have your doctor’s approval, choose a reputable supplement brand with clear ingredients lists (no “proprietary blends”). Because the supplement industry is largely unregulated, look for phrases like “third party tested” and the “NSF” seal which indicates certain safety standards are met.

Lastly, pick a form of supplement your child will take consistently. Gummy vitamins, powders, or liquids can all be good options depending on what your child tolerates best. While gummies may contain a little extra sugar or have slightly lower absorption, they can still be a good choice if that’s what works for your child.

The Best Supplements for Kids with Autism

**Disclaimer: All of these supplements require further research to be considered a treatment or therapy for autism. Please speak with your medical provider before starting any supplement.

B6 & Magnesium

Some small studies and parent reports suggest that B6 and magnesium taken together have improved aggression, social skills, attention, learning, language, gastrointestinal issues, and sleep (4). However, larger studies have less consistent results in behavioral improvements (5).

Folinic Acid

Folinic acid is a form of vitamin B9 that may help with communication, emotional responses, and adaptation to change (6). This is because some kids with autism have difficulty processing folate because of antibodies that block its uptake. Folinic acid can help bypass this issue and support brain development.

Fiber

Around 65% of kids  with autism struggle with constipation, largely because of limited fiber intake from their restricted diets (1). Fiber supplements can help improve bowel movements and ease gastrointestinal discomfort. 

A powder supplement that dissolves easily into drinks or foods, like the Begin Health Growing Up Prebiotics, is a great option for autistic kids with texture sensitivities. With 3 grams of fiber per serving, it can help your little one meet their fiber goal and ease constipation. 

Omega 3

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid),are building blocks of the brain and are essential for its growth and function. Because of their anti-inflammatory nature, some small studies suggest that omega-3 supplements may help reduce repetitive stimming behaviors and improve social communication (7). 

Prebiotics & Probiotics

Prebiotics (the food that fuels gut bacteria) and probiotics (the good gut bacteria to repopulate a healthy gut) help support overall gut health. Because many kids with autism struggle with gastrointestinal issues like constipation, bloating, gas, and stomach pain, improving the gut microbiome is one of the best ways to alleviate these symptoms. 

There is also some early research suggesting that improving gut health through prebiotics and probiotics can have positive impacts on behavior due to the gut-brain connection (8).

Begin Health Growing Up Prebiotics contains gentle prebiotic fibers like chicory root and human milk oligosaccharides to support softer stools and regular digestion (9).

Supplements to Avoid

Generic (or Low Dose) Multivitamins

While multivitamins can be a good safety net or insurance policy to fill in nutritional gaps, standard multivitamins may not be enough for kids with autism who have very limited diets. They often need more targeted support for specific nutrients like B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin A, and fiber.

High-Dose Vitamin A or D

Although kids with autism often have low levels of these vitamins, taking large doses can be dangerous. Both are fat-soluble vitamins, which means excess can build up in the body and can lead to liver, kidney, or bone problems.

“Detox” or “Cleanse” Supplements

Products marketed as detoxes or cleanses often promise to "clear toxins" or "cleanse the brain." These claims are not supported by scientific research and can even be harmful to the kidneys or cause electrolyte imbalances if taken without medical supervision.

Summary

Many kids with autism could benefit from supplements to help fill nutritional gaps caused by selective eating or restrictive diets. Nutrients like B6, magnesium, folinic acid, fiber, omega-3s, prebiotics, and probiotics may offer behavioral and physical benefits. 

Always work closely with your little one’s healthcare team to create a supplement plan that is safe and appropriate for their unique needs.