Assessment of some Nutritional Risk Factors that Predispose to Autism Among Preschool & School Saudi Children Living in AL-Madinah Al-Monawarah City

Abstract

Autism is a neuro developmental condition of unknown etiology which is usually diagnosed in the first 3 years of life. Several studies have linked with reduced intake of some nutrients with autism and autism spectrum disorders. To identify nutritional risk factors that predispose to autism among preschool and school children living in Al-Madinah Al-Monawarah. Thirty children with autism/autism spectrum disorders (AU/ASD), 2-12 years old and thirty six matched control children were compared as regards BMI and food intake, using 24 hour recall and food frequency questionnaire. Children with AU/ASD consumed similar amount of energy, protein and many other nutrients, many of which were below the international recommendations for children at the same age group, both consumed significantly less omega-3 and iron than the control group. Children with ASD like the children in KSA consumed less than the recommended amount of certain nutrients from food.  Autistic children suffer from more reduced intake of omeg-3 and iron, with limited intake of many food varieties could be linked to autism in susceptible children.