[Research progress on the association between prenatal nutritional factors and autism spectrum disorder]

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Maternal and child health
• Nutritional science

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with significant societal impact.
• Atypical brain development during gestation is a hallmark of ASD.
• Maternal diet during pregnancy is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in ASD pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key nutrients implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk during pregnancy.
• To provide a theoretical foundation for developing precise perinatal nutritional intervention plans.
• To explore the role of maternal nutrition in mitigating ASD risk.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating maternal diet and ASD risk.
• Analysis of the impact of specific nutrients on prenatal brain development.
• Synthesis of findings on prenatal nutritional interventions.

Main Results:

• Prenatal multivitamin supplementation and adequate vitamin D intake may reduce ASD risk.
• Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and iron consumption are associated with protective effects against ASD.
• Research findings on prenatal nutrition and ASD risk, while sometimes inconsistent, highlight a promising area for intervention.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal nutritional interventions represent a promising strategy for mitigating ASD risk.
• Specific nutrients like vitamins and fatty acids play a crucial role in fetal neurodevelopment.
• Further research is needed to establish precise perinatal nutritional guidelines for ASD prevention.