Vitamin A

 

What is Vitamin A?

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in many red/orange-colored foods. It is important for vision, immune function, and growth and development.

 

 

Effects on Autism

Vitamin deficiency can affect nervous system development, leading to impairments in learning, memory, and cognitive function. Studies have shown that people with autism often have low vitamin A levels. Vitamin A deficiency may contribute to autistic severity by negatively affecting the nervous system and leading to lower oxytocin levels. Oxytocin is a hormone that affects social behavior and emotional detachment. Lower levels of vitamin A are associated with more severe behavioral symptoms. Vitamin A supplementation has decreased deficiency and reduced the severity of autism symptoms in children.

 

 

Effects on Brain Development

Vitamin A is an important nutrient that helps children’s brains grow and work properly. It is especially crucial during pregnancy and early childhood development. Vitamin A helps protect brain cells from damage and decrease inflammation.

 

 

Foods High in Vitamin A (Highest on Top):

1.     Sweet Potato

2.     Spinach

3.     Pumpkin

4.     Carrots

5.     Herring

6.     Fortified milk

7.     Cantaloupe

8.     Ricotta cheese

9.     Red peppers

10.  Mangos