Are vitamin D and autism risk linked in advanced maternal age? 

There is growing interest in the role that vitamin D and autism risk may play in pregnancies, particularly for mothers of advanced maternal age. Vitamin D is essential for numerous aspects of maternal and foetal health, and emerging research suggests that low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy could potentially influence autism risk in offspring. 

For older mothers, prenatal nutrition has become a critical area of focus, as deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin D are linked to various developmental disorders. The impact of maternal supplementation on autism risk is still being studied, but evidence increasingly supports the idea that maintaining healthy vitamin D levels could reduce some risks related to neurodevelopmental conditions. 

How vitamin D and autism risk relate to age? 

Here’s how vitamin D and autism risk are connected to advanced maternal age: 

Vitamin D deficiency and neurodevelopment 

Low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy have been associated with increased autism risk, particularly in pregnancies involving advanced maternal age. Vitamin D plays a role in brain development, and deficiencies may disrupt neurodevelopmental processes. 

The importance of prenatal nutrition 

Adequate levels of vitamin D, along with other key nutrients, are essential for healthy pregnancy outcomes. Maternal supplementation is a simple step that can help maintain optimal levels, especially for older mothers who may be at higher risk of deficiencies. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how vitamin D and autism risk intersect with advanced maternal age and how nutritional choices can support healthier pregnancies. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnostic nuances, and full developmental outlook, read our complete guide to Advanced Parental Age.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.