A importância do zinco na infância e sua repercussão no Transtorno do Espectro Autista: revisão de literatura.

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterized by a neurodevelopmental disorder with deficits in communication and social interaction. Children, from 6 months of age, receive sufficient amounts of micronutrients such as zinc through complementary foods. In childhood, zinc is essential for growth and development, especially of the nervous system. Therefore, it is essential to address micronutrient deficiencies to promote healthy development. The objective of the study is to review articles from the last five years on the micronutrient zinc and its importance in childhood, also investigating the association with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The selection of studies considered Brazilian and international studies, in the last ten years. Data collection was carried out in the Pubmed, Scielo, Virtual Health Library and Google Scholar databases. The descriptors used were: “Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Zinc”, “Zinc AND childhood”, “Autism spectrum disorder AND Zinc Deficiency”, Autism and zinc”, “autism and diet”, “zinc supplementation in ASD” and “Zinc Deficiency”. 54 surveys carried out in 11 countries were included. However, some people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) had significantly lower zinc concentrations, possibly related to some symptoms of the disorder. The results indicate that it is important to evaluate the mineral metabolism profile in children with ASD to determine the potential benefits of supplementation. Adequate nutrient supplementation can play a significant role in the health and well-being of these children.