The nutritional and some metabolic markers of autistic children

Autism is a neurological disorder of behavior and the disability to socialize. Autism disorders (ASD) affect more the percent of children who are not apparent in the behavior before the age of three years. Genetics have a major role in the etiology of autism, in conjunction with the early environmental factors of growth. Epidemiological studies indicated that the environmental factors are focused on the physiological and behavioral effects of dietary change but has not examined the effect of exclusion diets. The present study aimed at comparing dietary regimens and habits of children with autistic disorder, compared with apparently healthy children. A total of 20 children with autistic disorder and 20 healthy male children apparently normally developing of similar age (8-10y) from (Menoufia Governorate) were enrolled in the study.The study measurements included: anthropometric measurements, nutritional value of their diet, biomarkers of vitamin and minerals status in plasma, plasma glutathione, and biomarkers of energy production.  The results showed that weight and BMI were significantly high in children with autistic disorder compared with healthy controls (p ≤ 0.05). Energy, Carbohydrates, total fats, Cholesterol, VitA, E and K intake were significantly high in autistic children compared to healthy controls. The autism children significantly had high level in blood of Vit. A, total Vit E , and Vit K while the control group significantly  higher level of total Carotenes(beta carotene and other carotenes, in blood), Vit B6, Folic Acid, Vit B12, Vit C and total Choline. Children with autism had significantly elevated oxidative stress, as indicated by increased GSH / GSSG ratio. The study concluded that regular screening for children with ASD is necessary to be in control.