In fact, intracellular minerals are cofactors of enzymes necessary for the healthy functioning and maintenance of many important functions in our body. In other words, the activation of those enzymes is a kind of key code for them to become active. For example, Zinc is related to the activation of inflammation pathways and the functioning of the immune system. Again, Zinc is necessary and important for the synthesis of many neurotransmitters (signal transmission molecules for nerve cells and the brain). So why are Zinc levels often low in autistic children? Because when inflammation pathways are active, the body consumes stored zinc. Selenium is often measured low along with zinc in autistic children. Low selenium indicates that oxidative stress pathways are active. Selenium is a strong antioxidant and it is consumed in order to control the activated oxidative stress.

In summary; low zinc and selenium indicate that both inflammation and oxidative stress are active.