Micronutrients and autism spectrum disorder

• Main Author: Dzulkifli, Mariam Adawiah
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Springer 2022
• Subjects: BF309 Consciousness. Cognition; BF699 Genetic psychology
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/107991/1/107991_Micronutrients%20and%20autism%20spectrum%20disorder.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/107991/; https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-16-6467-0_12
• Institution: Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia

Both genetic and non-genetic factors have been closely associated as the determinants of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The factors related to genetic as the cause of ASD is undisputable. The research trend is now shifting to look for evidence to support the contributions of environmental factors including nutrition to ASD. This chapter discusses the relationship between a type of body essential known as micronutrients and ASD. The core discussion of the chapter is on the interplay between micronutrients and ASD. Three areas involving maternal diet condition, dietary intake of individuals with ASD, and breastfeeding are highlighted. The discussion continues with a discussion on the how the gut–brain axis relates to ASD. The chapter ends with a discussion on the potential contributions of nutritional approach to optimize the well-being of individuals with ASD.