Vitamin A & Urocholine for Autism
Megson’s Research on Supplements for Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Doctor Megson has put forward the theory that autism may result from “disruption of the G-alpha protein,” which affects the brain’s retinoid receptors. Retinoid receptors are critical for sensory perception, attention and language processing, all areas that are often deficient in those with autistic spectrum disorders. Autistic individuals are also more inclined to have relatives who suffer from night blindness (poor night vision) and other retinoid-based disorders.
Nutritional Basis for the Theory
There has been a dramatic increase in the autism rate in recent years combined with a decrease in the consumption of foods rich in natural cis forms vitamin A such as kidney, milk fat, liver, salmon and codfish. There are essentially two forms of vitamin A, which have molecular shapes that are cis-trans isomers of each other. The synthesis of rhodopsin, which promotes healthy eye functioning, requires a particular cis isomer of vitamin A. The commercial version of vitamin A - vitamin A palmitate - contains only the trans form, which is not as effective.
Most children now consume more of the trans form than the cis form of vitamin A. Vitamin A palmitate, derived from palm oil, can be found in many baby formulas and low-fat milk. Beta-carotene, found in dark orange and yellow vegetables and fruits such as carrots, cantaloupes and sweet potatoes, as well as dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, can be converted to vitamin A by the body. However, although they offer many important health benefits, fruit and vegetable sources provide the trans form rather than the more potent cis form of vitamin A. Additionally, absorption of this form of vitamin A can be compromised by damage in mucosal gut surfaces as a result of a wheat allergy or intolerance that is often undiagnosed, as well as a number of other health conditions. Overall, the cis form is far more effective.
Case Study Findings
Providing natural cis vitamin A supplements in the form of cod liver oil along with the alpha muscarinic receptor agonist Urocholine has generated dramatic, immediate benefits for some autistic children, including enhanced social interaction, improved attention and language usage, better vision and improved sleep.
Vitamin A supplements may be beneficial for children who engage in “sideways glancing,” as this may indicate improper function of the rods in the eye, a symptom of defective G-alpha protein. Case studies have indicated improved eye contact with supplementation.
Parent Ratings
Of 111 parents ratings of vitamin A's effects on their autistic children, nearly one-third (32%) saw improvements, while 62% reported that the supplement had no effect and 6% said that their children grew worse. However, ratings of cod liver oil supplements were higher, with 53% of parents citing improvement (out of a total of 160 cases), 42% seeing no change and 5% saying their children grew worses
Safety
Vitamin A can be toxic when too much is taken. Overdose can cause blurred vision, headache, nausea, orange skin, growth retardation, loss of hair, enlarged liver and spleen, and even death. Those interested in vitamin A supplements should consult a physician to establish a safe dose.
Further Research Required
Research into vitamin A supplementation for autistic spectrum disorders is relatively new and further studies are required to confirm the beneficial effects of this supplement. Those who wish to learn more about Dr. Megson’s research may wish to visit her website.
Consult a Physician
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be taken as medical advice. If you are interested in using vitamin and mineral supplements to treat autism or other conditions, you should consult a qualified medical professional.
Further Reading
For parent ratings of other medications and supplements for autism, see the Autism Research Institute’s Parent Ratings of Behavioural Effects of Biomedical Interventions. For more information about nutritional supplements for treating autistic spectrum disorders, see Treating Autism with Vitamin C and Treating Autism with Vitamin B6.
References:
- Megson, M., MD, FAAP. (1999). “Is Autism a G-Alpha Protein Defect Reversible with Natural Vitamin A?” Autism.com.
- Mayo Clinic. (2008). "Vitamins and Supplements - Beta-carotene." Mayoclinic.com.
- National Institute of Arthritis and Muskuloskeletal Diseases. (2005). "Vitamin A and Bone Health." National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services. Niams.nih.gov.
- WrongDiagnosis.com. (2008). “Vitamin A Overdose"
