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Autism

Elevated Risk of Nutritional Deficiencies and Bone Health Outcomes in Children with Autism

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) are at increased risk for nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to serious adverse bone health outcomes, according to a new study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Researchers from Emory University found that two out of four patients with ASD and ARFID had deficiencies in vitamins A, B12, E, and zinc, while all four had calcium and vitamin D deficiencies. This research highlights the need for early identification and management of nutritional deficiencies in children with ASD and ARFID to prevent long-term bone health consequences.

Key Takeaways:

  • Children with ASD and ARFID are at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to serious adverse bone health outcomes.
  • Two out of four patients in the study had deficiencies in vitamins A, B12, E, and zinc, while all four had calcium and vitamin D deficiencies.
  • All patients with vitamin D deficiency developed rickets, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin D.
  • Provisional evidence suggests that children with ASD and ARFID are at elevated risk for serious adverse bone health outcomes.
  • The study highlights the importance of early identification and management of nutritional deficiencies in children with ASD and ARFID.
  • Authors of the study include Noreen Islam, Brooke S. Anderson, William G. Sharp, Karen J. Loechner, and Kristin L. Hathaway.
  • The study was published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, which is a peer-reviewed journal.

Statistics:

  • 2 out of 4 patients had deficiencies in vitamins A, B12, E, and zinc.
  • All 4 patients had calcium and vitamin D deficiencies.
  • 2 out of 4 patients with vitamin D deficiency developed rickets.
  • Effects of nutritional deficiencies on bone health were observed in patients with ASD and ARFID.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers' Work from Emory University Focuses on Autism (Brief Report: Decreased Bone Health In Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 20, 2025; p 1009.
  • Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Brief Report: Decreased Bone Health In Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, 2025;55(6):2179-2185.

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