19/05/2025
Low Newborn Vitamin D Linked to Autism and Schizophrenia
Newborns with vitamin D deficiency face a higher risk of developing mental disorders such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and schizophrenia later in life.
Researchers examined the vitamin D status of over 71,000 individuals, including many diagnosed with mental health conditions during childhood or early adulthood.
This study is the largest of its kind and assessed six mental disorders using biomarkers and genetic data related to vitamin D.
The results build on previous research linking low neonatal vitamin D levels to schizophrenia and autism, expanding the findings to include ADHD.
The authors suggest that vitamin D is vital for brain development, and its deficiency in early life may disrupt neurodevelopment.
The findings support the use of vitamin D supplements during pregnancy as a preventive strategy, similar to folate use to prevent spina bifida.
https://neurosciencenews.com/vitamin-d-asd-newborns-28974/