Australian researchers have conducted an extensive study to determine whether vitamins taken by women during pregnancy can affect the likelihood of their children developing autism spectrum disorders. The research team reviewed over a thousand scientific publications and selected eight of the highest-quality reviews and meta-analyses. The final analysis included data from more than three million women and their children.
During the study, the experts compared the outcomes between those who took special supplements and those who did not. They found that taking folic acid or multivitamins during pregnancy is linked to a noticeable reduction in the risk of autism spectrum disorders in children.
The Numbers: How Effective Are These Supplements?
The results turned out to be quite revealing. Women who incorporated folic acid or multivitamins into their diet had a lower incidence of autism diagnoses in their children. The risk was reduced by 30% for folic acid and by 34% for multivitamins. These figures were obtained after thorough analysis of data from dozens of studies conducted in various countries and among different populations.
The authors emphasize that their conclusions are based on the combination of data from several independent sources, which lends additional credibility to the results. This approach helps minimize the influence of random factors and provides a more objective picture.
Key nuances: why the situation isn’t so clear-cut
Despite the impressive numbers, experts advise caution when interpreting these results. The composition of multivitamin complexes can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer and region. In addition, the effects of individual ingredients on the bodies of expectant mothers and their babies have not been fully studied.
Some specialists note that assessing the benefits of multivitamins is challenging due to the large number of variables. For example, lifestyle, diet, chronic health conditions, and other factors may also influence child development. That’s why only doctors should provide final recommendations on the use of supplements, based on the specific needs of each woman.
What it means for future parents and medicine
Nevertheless, these findings open new perspectives for early autism prevention. If further research confirms these results, doctors will be able to make more precise supplement recommendations for women planning to become pregnant or already expecting a child.
Whether all expectant mothers should take vitamins remains an open question. However, the findings by Australian scientists have already attracted interest from the medical community and could serve as the basis for new pregnancy care guidelines.
Did you know? What’s important to know about folic acid and prenatal vitamins
Folic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin that plays a key role in the development of the fetal nervous system. Its deficiency in early pregnancy can lead to serious developmental disorders. That’s why, in many countries, women are advised to start taking folic acid even when planning for pregnancy.
Prenatal multivitamin complexes usually contain not only folic acid but also other essential nutrients: iron, iodine, vitamin D, calcium, and a range of trace elements. Their composition is formulated to meet the body’s needs during pregnancy. However, it’s important to remember that excessive intake of certain vitamins can be harmful, so any supplements should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor.
In recent years, interest in preventing autism through nutrition and vitamins has grown significantly. Research in this field is ongoing, and scientists hope that in the future, more precise recommendations can be developed for prospective parents. The Australian specialists who conducted this analysis are among the world’s leading experts in maternal and child health. Their work has already been recognized by the scientific community and may influence pregnancy management approaches in many countries.
