Early tests suggest lack of vitamin D could be autism factor

A study linking autism with vitamin D deficiency has sparked calls for greater supplement use during pregnancy. The Australian-led study found pregnant women with low vitamin D levels are more likely to have children with autistic traits.

Study author Professor John McGrath examines samples Source: SBS

It is safe, cheap and easy to access, yet more than a billion people worldwide are said to be vitamin D deficient.

Vitamin D is known for the vital role it plays in bone and muscle development.

Now, an Australian study is giving expectant mothers even more reason to stock up on the vitamin.

Analysing thousands of blood samples from pregnant women, researchers at the Queensland Brain Institute found a link between vitamin D levels during pregnancy and autism.