Vitamin/Mineral Supplement for Children and Adults With Autism

New Vitamin/Mineral Supplement for Children and Adults With Autism - National Study

The investigators hypothesis is that a new, revised formulation of a vitamin/mineral supplement will result in:

1. improvement of nutritional status in some children/adults with autism, and
2. reduction of some of the symptoms of autism in some children

The major goal of this study is to determine the effect of this vitamin/mineral supplement on levels of vitamins, minerals, neurotransmitters, and biomarkers for nutritional deficiencies. The study design is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled. Blood and urine measurements will be measured at the beginning of the study in children with autism and typical children. Then, the children with autism will be given the supplement or placebo for 12 weeks, and then their blood and urine will be re-measured.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. age 3-60 years old;
2. Autism Group: diagnosis of autism, pervasive developmental disorder/not otherwise specified (PDD/NOS), or Asperger's by a psychiatrist or similar professional
3. Control Group: in good mental and physical health, and no siblings with autism spectrum disorders, and no evidence of Attention Deficit Disorder by parent report

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Usage of a vitamin/mineral supplement in the last 2 months
2. Current use of any chelation treatment