Vitamin B6 and magnesium for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Some studies show speech and language improvements after administering large doses of vitamin B6 to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Magnesium metabolism could be involved in autism, autism spectrum disorder or pervasive developmental disorder (Rimland et al., 1978). Magnesium prevents against encephalopathy and developmental delay (Doyle et al., 2008).
Vitamin B6 is beneficial for about half of the autistic individuals, with no significant adverse effects [3]. Decreases in behavioral problems, improvements in appropriate behavior, and normalization of brain wave activity have been documented in response to vitamin B6 treatment [3].
Methylated Vitamin B₁₂ (Cobalamin)
Children with autism have shown significant behavioral improvement while taking vitamin B12 supplements in the way of increased awareness and responsiveness, better focus, eye contact, socialization, and speech. Vitamin B12 is known as being one of the best natural stress relievers.
Generally, it's suggested that people take large doses of vitamin B6 (usually in tablet form) along with magnesium. Magnesium is supposed to help the body absorb the vitamin B6 and reduce any side effects.
Vitamin B6 and magnesium to ease autism symptoms
Both B6 and magnesium levels should be monitored in children with autism whether they are on a supplement or not as magnesium levels tend to be lower in children with ASD, and it is required for the proper absorption and use of B6 in the body.
Magnesium plays a role in metabolism and muscle health and helps manage sleep. B6 may boost energy. ZMA makers claim that increasing these three nutrients in your system can build muscle strength and stamina, speed muscle recovery, and improve the quality of your sleep.
The double-blind placebo-controlled crossover experiment utilized 16 autistic children, and again produced statistically significant results. For most children dosage levels of B6 ranged between 300 mg and 500 mg per day.
Low vitamin D levels in utero, postnatal, and in early childhood have been hypothesized to be a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly ASD.
Best Magnesium
If you're looking for a supplement that can have numerous potential health benefits, Breta Alstrom, MS, RDN, who specializes in working with autistic kids, suggests magnesium. Our top pick for magnesium supplement for autistic kids is Mary Ruth's Kids Magnesium Calm Gummies.
Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is important for normal brain development and for keeping the nervous system and immune system healthy. Food sources of vitamin B-6 include poultry, fish, potatoes, chickpeas, bananas and fortified cereals.
It helps calm the nervous system by blocking certain impulses between nerve cells, immediately slowing down brain activity. This, in turn, has a calming effect that can help relieve stress, anxiety, and fear.
Not only does magnesium oil help to calm children down, but it is also proven to decrease stress and increase their attention span making it perfect for those stressful school times.
Magnesium before bed can help your child feel more relaxed and can start to calm down overstimulating or hyperactive behavior, too!
Vitamin D has been suggested as a therapy to improve symptoms of ASD including speech [18].
Is there medicine for autism? There is no medicine for autism specifically. But there is medicine that treats symptoms typically associated with autism, such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and aggression. This can include a range of medications, such as antipsychotics like Risperdal or stimulants like Adderall.
– A number of studies testing high dose B6 have showed benefits. In a survey of 7256 parents, 49% reported symptoms of autism improved in their children with B6 and magnesium supplement. Where to start? Begin with a high purity, high potency multivitamin and mineral supplement for your child.
Vitamin B6 works synergistically with magnesium, and studies have shown that magnesium improves focus, anxiety, and sleep. In short, children with ADHD tend to have low levels of both vitamin B6 and magnesium which may contribute to their symptoms.
Always consult with your pediatrician first before adding B6 supplements to your child's diet. Giving your child too much B6 causes issues for them over time and can actually be toxic. Too much B6 in the diet can lead to nerve damage or numbness in the extremities (arms, legs, hands, feet) that can be irreversible.
Anxiety & Stress: Research suggests that higher levels of B6 can help shift the body from fight-or-flight mode to a more relaxed state. In a recent study, those with extreme stress reported greater improvement when taking B6 with magnesium compared to magnesium alone.
With its ability to relax muscles, magnesium has long been considered a natural sedative and is increasingly used, especially for people with insomnia. Research shows that older adults with insomnia taking magnesium B6 can fall asleep faster and wake up less early.