Exploring the Link Between Essential Elements and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Study Review

Exploring the Link Between Essential Elements and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Study Review

GABA and autism connection

The gut microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Recent research has suggested that there may be a link between the gut microbiome and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this article, we will explore what we currently know about the connection between the gut microbiome and autism.

Several studies have found differences in the gut microbiome of individuals with ASD compared to those without the disorder. A 2017 study published in the journal Microbiome found that children with ASD had lower levels of certain gut bacteria, including Prevotella and Coprococcus, and higher levels of others, such as Desulfovibrio, compared to children without the disorder.

Another study published in the journal Molecular Autism found that children with ASD had a less diverse gut microbiome compared to typically developing children.

These differences in the gut microbiome could potentially impact the communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis.

This could potentially affect brain development and contribute to the development of ASD. One theory is that changes in the gut microbiome could lead to an increase in the production of certain metabolites that play a role in brain function and behavior.

While more research is needed to fully understand the link between the gut microbiome and autism, there is some evidence to suggest that interventions that improve gut health could have a positive impact on the symptoms of ASD.

A 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients found that a gluten-free, casein-free diet improved both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD.

Another study published in the journal Beneficial Microbes found that probiotic supplements improved both gut symptoms and behavior in children with ASD.

It’s important to note that while these studies are promising, more research is needed before we can draw firm conclusions about the link between the gut microbiome and autism. However, this area of research has the potential to offer new insights into the causes and treatment of this complex disorder.

One potential avenue for further research is the use of fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) to improve gut health in individuals with ASD. FMTs involve transferring fecal matter from a healthy donor into the gastrointestinal tract of a recipient.

While FMTs have primarily been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, such as Clostridioides difficile infection, there is some evidence to suggest that they could also be effective in improving gut health in individuals with ASD.

A 2020 study published in the journal Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology found that FMTs improved both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. Another study published in the journal Translational Psychiatry found that FMTs improved gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with ASD, but did not have a significant impact on behavioral symptoms.

While FMTs are still considered an experimental treatment for ASD and more research is needed to fully understand their safety and efficacy, they offer a potential avenue for improving gut health in individuals with this complex disorder.

In conclusion, the potential link between the gut microbiome and autism is an exciting area of research. While the exact nature of this link is not yet fully understood, there is some evidence to suggest that interventions that improve gut health could have a positive impact on the symptoms of ASD. As researchers continue to explore this connection, we may gain new insights into the causes of autism and new avenues for treatment.

Resources

Gastrointestinal microbiota in children with autism in Slovakia” by Aleksandra Tomova, Veronika Husarova, Silvia Lakatosova, Jan Bakos, Barbora Vlkova, Katarina Babinska, and Daniela Ostatnikova: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24798823/
– “Effectiveness of probiotics on the duration of illness in healthy children and adults who develop common acute respiratory infectious conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis” by H. Hemilä and J. Chalker: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7319190/
– “Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review” by S. Kang, S. Kim, and J. Lee: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7483089/
– “Gut microbiota and autism: key concepts and findings” by C. de Theije, K. Wopereis, H. Beggs, H. van den Bogert, E. G. de Vries, and A. D. Jansen: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5045141/

 

Gut microbiome

Gut microbiome

Gut Feeling: Could Improving Gut Health Help Treat Autism?

GABA and autism connection

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction. While the exact cause of ASD is still unknown, recent research has suggested that there may be a link between the gut microbiome and the development of this disorder. In this article, we will explore the potential for improving gut health to help treat autism.

The gut microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Recent studies have found differences in the gut microbiome of individuals with ASD compared to those without the disorder. These differences in the gut microbiome could potentially impact the communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. This could potentially affect brain development and contribute to the development of ASD.

Butyrate and its Neurologycal impact

Butyrate: Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by certain gut bacteria during the fermentation of dietary fibers. It serves as a primary energy source for cells lining the colon and has anti-inflammatory properties. Butyrate has been implicated in regulating various physiological processes, including neurological function.
Butyrate has been shown to affect gene expression and cellular processes in the brain. Animal studies have suggested that butyrate may have neuroprotective effects and influence brain development and behavior.

Dysbiosis

One theory is that changes in the gut microbiome or dysbiosis could lead to an increase in the production of certain metabolites that play a role in brain function and behavior. This could potentially contribute to the development of ASD symptoms, such as repetitive behaviors and social deficits.

Several studies have found that probiotics can improve gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that a probiotic supplement improved gastrointestinal symptoms and decreased repetitive behaviors in children with ASD. Another study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that a probiotic supplement improved both gut symptoms and social skills in children with ASD.

In addition to probiotics, dietary changes can also improve gut health and potentially improve ASD symptoms. A gluten-free, casein-free diet has been shown to improve both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. A 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients found that children with ASD who followed a gluten-free, casein-free diet had significant improvements in both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms compared to a control group.

Another dietary intervention that has shown promise is the use of prebiotics, which are non-digestible carbohydrates that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A 2019 study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience found that a prebiotic supplement improved both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. Before using any kind of probiotic supplement, a microbiome test should be applied.

While the use of probiotics and dietary changes show promise in improving gut health and potentially improving ASD symptoms, it’s important to note that more research is needed in this area. It’s also important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate interventions for each individual with ASD.

In conclusion, the link between the gut microbiome and autism is an exciting area of research. While more research is needed to fully understand the connection between gut health and ASD, interventions

Resources
  1. – “Gastrointestinal microbiota in children with autism in Slovakia” by Aleksandra Tomova, Veronika Husarova, Silvia Lakatosova, Jan Bakos, Barbora Vlkova, Katarina Babinska, and Daniela Ostatnikova: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24798823/
  2. – “Effectiveness of probiotics on the duration of illness in healthy children and adults who develop common acute respiratory infectious conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis” by H. Hemilä and J. Chalker: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7319190/
  3. – “Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review” by S. Kang, S. Kim, and J. Lee: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7483089/
  4. – “Gut microbiota and autism: key concepts and findings” by C. de Theije, K. Wopereis, H. Beggs, H. van den Bogert, E. G. de Vries, and A. D. Jansen: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5045141/
    1. Son, J. S., Zheng, L. J., Rowehl, L. M., Tian, X., Zhang, Y., Zhu, W., … & Loparo, J. J. (2015). Comparison of fecal microbiota in children with autism spectrum disorders and neurotypical siblings in the Simons Simplex Collection. PloS one, 10(10), e0137725.
    2. Tomova, A., Husarova, V., Lakatosova, S., Bakos, J., Vlkova, B., Babinska, K., & Ostatnikova, D. (2015). Gastrointestinal microbiota in children with autism in Slovakia. Physiology & behavior, 138, 179-187

 

Gut symptoms

Gut symptoms

GABA and autism connection

Could Improving Gut Health Help Treat Autism?

Recent studies have found differences in the gut microbiome of individuals with ASD compared to those without the disorder. These differences in the gut microbiome could potentially impact the communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. This could potentially affect brain development and contribute to the development of ASD.

One theory is that changes in the gut microbiome could lead to an increase in the production of certain metabolites that play a role in brain function and behavior. This could potentially contribute to the development of ASD symptoms, such as repetitive behaviors and social deficits.

Given the potential link between the gut microbiome and ASD, interventions that improve gut health could have a positive impact on the symptoms of this disorder. One potential intervention is the use of probiotics, which are live microorganisms that can improve the balance of the gut microbiome.

Several studies have found that probiotics can improve gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that a probiotic supplement improved gastrointestinal symptoms and decreased repetitive behaviors in children with ASD. Another study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that a probiotic supplement improved both gut symptoms and social skills in children with ASD.

In addition to probiotics, dietary changes can also improve gut health and potentially improve ASD symptoms. A gluten-free, casein-free diet has been shown to improve both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. A 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients found that children with ASD who followed a gluten-free, casein-free diet had significant improvements in both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms compared to a control group.

Another dietary intervention that has shown promise is the use of prebiotics, which are non-digestible carbohydrates that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A 2019 study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience found that a prebiotic supplement improved both gut symptoms and behavioral symptoms in children with ASD.

While the use of probiotics and dietary changes show promise in improving gut health and potentially improving ASD symptoms, it’s important to note that more research is needed in this area.

Resources

• “Gastrointestinal microbiota in children with autism in Slovakia” by Aleksandra Tomova, Veronika Husarova, Silvia Lakatosova, Jan Bakos, Barbora Vlkova, Katarina Babinska, and Daniela Ostatnikova: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24798823/
• “Effectiveness of probiotics on the duration of illness in healthy children and adults who develop common acute respiratory infectious conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis” by H. Hemilä and J. Chalker: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7319190/
• “Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review” by S. Kang, S. Kim, and J. Lee: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7483089/
• “Gut microbiota and autism: key concepts and findings” by C. de Theije, K. Wopereis, H. Beggs, H. van den Bogert, E. G. de Vries, and A. D. Jansen: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5045141/

 

Unlocking the Health Benefits of Butyrate: The Power of a Gut-Healthy Fatty Acid

Unlocking the Health Benefits of Butyrate: The Power of a Gut-Healthy Fatty Acid

GABA and autism connection

The human body is a remarkable and intricate system of interconnections. One such fascinating connection lies within our gut – a vast ecosystem of microorganisms known as the gut microbiota. This community of “good bacteria” plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. Among the numerous byproducts generated by these microbes, one stands out for its potent health-promoting properties – butyrate.

What is Butyrate?

Butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, is produced by certain gut bacteria through the fermentation of dietary fibers. It serves as an essential energy source for the cells lining the colon and plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy gut environment. Apart from its role as an energy provider, butyrate boasts several health benefits, earning it the reputation of a “gut-healthy” fatty acid.

Butyrate and Gut Health

One of the primary roles of butyrate is in promoting gut health. By nourishing the cells lining the colon, it helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier. This barrier acts as a selective gatekeeper, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream and promoting the absorption of essential nutrients.

A healthy intestinal barrier contributes to improved digestion and immune function while reducing the risk of inflammation and digestive disorders.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues. Butyrate has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping to regulate the body’s immune response. By curbing inflammation, butyrate may help alleviate symptoms in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Potential Impact on Brain Health

Research exploring the gut-brain axis – the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain – has shed light on the potential impact of butyrate on brain health. Studies in animals have suggested that butyrate may influence gene expression and cellular processes in the brain, potentially supporting cognitive function and even offering neuroprotective effects. While more research is needed in this area, these early findings are intriguing and offer exciting possibilities for future investigations.

Weight Management and Metabolic Health

Some studies have indicated that butyrate might play a role in weight management and metabolic health. It has been associated with improved insulin sensitivity and may help regulate appetite and reduce fat storage. However, it’s important to note that while butyrate shows promise in this area, maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle remain the cornerstones of weight management and metabolic well-being.

Sources of Butyrate

Ensuring adequate levels of butyrate in the gut involves maintaining a balanced and fiber-rich diet. Foods that are high in dietary fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, can serve as fuel for gut bacteria to produce butyrate. Additionally, fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut may also provide a source of beneficial gut bacteria that contribute to butyrate production.

The Future of Butyrate Research

While much progress has been made in understanding the potential health benefits of butyrate, the field of gut microbiota research is still relatively young. As scientists delve deeper into the intricacies of the gut-brain axis and the role of butyrate in various physiological processes, we can expect more exciting discoveries in the future.

Conclusion

Butyrate, the gut-healthy fatty acid, is a remarkable example of the intricate relationship between our gut and overall health. From promoting gut integrity and mitigating inflammation to potentially supporting brain health and metabolic well-being, butyrate demonstrates its versatile potential as a health-promoting compound. By maintaining a balanced diet and nurturing our gut microbiota through fiber-rich foods, we can unlock the powerful benefits of butyrate and pave the way for a healthier and happier life.

As with any health-related information, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and recommendations. Embracing the journey of understanding the gut-brain connection and the wonders of butyrate might indeed hold the key to unlocking a healthier future.

Resources

 

 

The link between diet and microbiome

The link between diet and microbiome

diet and microbiome

The composition of the microbiome of the intestinal flora is influenced by several external and internal environmental factors: genetics, age, gender, and so on. Of all the external factors examined so far, dietary habits have the greatest effect on the composition of the intestinal flora.

Recent studies have suggested that the intestinal microbiome plays an important role in modulating the risk of several chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. At the same time, it is now understood that diet plays a significant role in shaping the microbiome, with experiments showing that dietary alterations can induce large, temporary microbial shifts within 24 h. Given this association, there may be significant therapeutic utility in altering microbial composition through diet. (1)

Stool microbiome studies show that the composition of the intestinal flora responds dynamically to the introduction of a new diet, however, if this new diet lasts only a short time, it is not sufficient to permanently restore the dysbiosis seen in diabetes, for example.

Differences in the microbiota are influenced by the housing location, hospitalization, rehabilitation, long-term home care, and diet. Microbiotas of people under long-term care are significantly less diverse than others and the elderly living separately are weaker, more fallible. Deteriorating health is indicated by the change in the structure of the gut microbiota, caused by the diet (2).

The composition of the gut microbiota is also influenced by fiber intake, even during adulthood. The effect of the fibers is that the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio increases, because of an increase in the number of the former, however, the body mass index is not related to this. The total of the bacterial genes of fiber consumers was similar but different from the microbiome of those ignoring fiber (3).

Food choice is manipulated by the microbiota, but at the same time, the microbiota can be manipulated also by food choice. Gut microbes can send signals to the brain through neural connections (nervus vagus), and thus urge people to consume foods that are necessary for optimal living conditions of the microbiota and the suppression of their competitors, regardless of whether this is beneficial for the „host” or not. The usual diet is satisfactory for certain members of the microbiota, but maybe it is not for others, and these can modify desires for food. For example, Prevotella requires carbohydrates for propagation, while dietary fibers mean a competitive advantage for Bifidobacteria, and it is exactly this competition that determines which group stays alive and becomes dominant. In overweight / obese individuals, an imbalance of the intestinal flora is also observed.

A microbiome study of people with a Western lifestyle found that a diet high in fiber and carbohydrates increased the proportion of Prevotella bacteria, while a diet rich in fat and protein favored the Bacteroides group. In overweight individuals who have been on a low-calorie, low-calorie, low-calorie diet for at least a year, the rate of Bacteroidetes: Firmicutes has increased. This change was greater the more weight the subjects in the experiment managed to get rid of. Also in the study of obese/overweight individuals, it was found that after a 6 + 6-week low-calorie, protein-rich diet, their metabolism was improved and the species richness of the intestinal flora was increased. However, the same change was negligible for individuals who had a more species-rich intestinal flora from the beginning.

To assert their interests, microbes quasi capture the nervous system of the host organism by exploiting the microbiome-gut-brain axis. In addition to the neural pathway, microbes can modify the secretion and operation of hormones influencing mood and behavior (dopamine, serotonin), and of certain receptors (e.g. taste), and can modify dietary preferences. Prebiotics, probiotics, fecal transplants, dietary changes can modify the microbiome even within a single day.

Now we know that gut microorganisms have been shown to play a role in a wide range of human diseases, including obesity, psoriasis, autism, and mood disorders. The close relationship between diet, the gut microbiome, and health suggests that we may improve our health by modulating our diet.
Further investigations have revealed more specific roles for some bacterial species in mediating host immunity and immunologic diseases. For example, the segmented filamentous bacteria have been found to promote autoimmune arthritis. On the other hand, lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacteria are known to secrete factors that dampen inflammation

Intestinal SCFAs have also been shown to protect against allergic airway inflammation and decrease the secretion of several pro-inflammatory cytokines. Besides immunity, gut microorganisms have also been shown to impact host metabolic health. Individuals with metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes have been shown to have intestinal dysbiosis in relation to healthy individuals. Further characterization of the link between the gut microbiome and obesity has revealed several bacterial groups that may specifically contribute to the disease. In particular, obese individuals have a high baseline Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. In these subjects, reduction of caloric intake was noted to lower the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. Intriguingly, hosts with a gut microbiome dominated by Firmicutes have altered methylation in the promoters of genes that are linked to cardiovascular disease and obesity. Additionally, Lactobacillus spp. has been shown to alleviate obesity-associated metabolic complications. The beneficial effects of Lactobacillus may be attributed to interactions with obesity-promoting bacteria in the gut and direct modulation of host immunity and gut barrier function. (4)

Although microbiome testing has undergone tremendous development over the past decade, the exact role of the intestinal microbiome in the development and maintenance of obesity, diabetes, or other disease remains unanswered. Despite, the next generation microbiome testing can help to detect all species of bacteria and along with the use of the existing knowledge it is now possible to develop some kind of therapies, recommend targeted diets that can help to balance the microbiome and prevent the development of the above diseases by correcting dysbiosis.

 

What is Dysbiosis

What is Dysbiosis

The beneficial bacteria are useful participants in our gut flora. The condition of our intestinal flora greatly affects our health. Dysbiosis is when the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut decreases and harmful bacteria, fungi, or parasites multiply. In the last ten years, we have seen a dramatic increase in the incidence of intestinal dysbiosis, in which both environmental and lifestyle factors play a major role.

Changes in the microbiome 

Changes to your gut microbiome also called your gut flora, may occur because the different organisms in your gut are not at the right levels.

As a result, a wide range of digestive tract-related symptoms happenssuch as diarrhea, cramping, obstruction, bloating, and indigestion. 

When your gut microbiome loses its diversity of bacteria, it can increase your risk of getting a chronic disease.

When your gut microbiome gets imbalanced and dysbiosis happens you are more likely to have stomach, intestinal skin, or other health conditions. Do these conditions include?

IBS, IBD

Cardiovascular problems

Obesity

Central nervous system disorders

Diabetes

Chron, Colitis

Allergic disorders

ADHD, Autism

Histamine intolerance, MCAS

There are at least 400 species of bacteria found in mainly our large intestine. They are essential for overall health as they aid in digestion, fight off pathogenic microorganisms, and synthesize vitamins.

There are three types of dysbiosis

Type 1. the number of good bacteria from your gut has been decreased

Type 2. harmful bacteria are already proliferated

Type 3. you lost your overall gut microbiome diversity. This means you lost both the good and the bad bacteria

What can cause dysbiosis

Excessive or wrong use of antibiotics,

Excessive alcohol consumption,

Increased intake of sugar or protein,

Frequent use of antacids,

Exposure to pesticides,

Chronic stress

Poor dental hygiene 

How to rebalance your microbiome

First of all, you need to rule out other possible causes of your digestive symptoms such as SIBO or parasites. For proper treatment, you should test your microbiome to detect the pathogens that are colonized in your gut, and probiotics that are missing.

Personalized supplement recommendations are fundamental for success and you will need to follow a microbiome diet for at least  6 weeks.

Is your child a picky eater?

Is your child a picky eater?

Is your child a picky eater

Many parents have trouble understanding and coping with their children’s picky eating habits. Children who are picky eaters have a strong sense of independence and self-determination.

What is picky eating?

Picky eating refers to a pattern of behavior in which a person is selective or picky about the foods they will eat, often eating only a narrow range of familiar and preferred foods and avoiding or rejecting new or different foods. It can be a normal part of childhood development, but in some cases, it can become persistent and problematic, leading to a limited and inadequate diet and potentially to nutritional deficiencies or other health problems.

What is the connection between picky eating and autism?

Picky eating is commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Studies have found that children with autism are more likely to have particular eating habits, which can cause nutritional deficiencies and other health problems. The reasons for the higher incidence of picky eating among individuals with autism are not well understood, but it is thought to be related to sensory sensitivities, difficulties with transitions and change, and an overall preference for routine and structure in their environment, including in their diet.
It’s important to note that while picky eating is common in individuals with autism, not all individuals with autism have picky eating habits, and not all individuals with picky eating habits have autism. If a child is having difficulty with feeding or nutrition, it’s recommended to seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

Is there any relation between picky eating and neurotransmitters?

Some evidence suggests that picky eating may be related to neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain. Neurotransmitters regulate mood, appetite, and other bodily functions.
For example, low serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood and appetite, have been associated with increased food cravings, impulsivity, and compulsive behaviors, which can contribute to picky eating. Similarly, low levels of dopamine, which is involved in motivation and reward, have been linked to decreased interest in food and reduced pleasure in eating.
However, while there is a relationship between neurotransmitter imbalances and picky eating, it is complex and not fully understood.

How to balance neurotransmitter levels in the brain?

There are several ways to balance neurotransmitter levels in the brain:
1. Diet: Consuming a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help support neurotransmitter balance.
2. Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to increase the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin, which can help improve mood and reduce stress.
3. Stress management: Chronic stress can disrupt neurotransmitter balance. Practicing stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help.
4. Sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for maintaining neurotransmitter balance. Poor sleep can disrupt neurotransmitter levels, while adequate sleep can help support neurotransmitter function.
5. Supplements: Some people may benefit from natural supplements like amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support neurotransmitter production and function. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

So neurotransmitter synthesis can affect the eating habits of a child. If you experience that your child is a picky eater, you should test his methylation and microbiome state to rule out methylation dysfunction and probable pathogens from the gut that can affect neurotransmitter synthesis.

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The Autism Guide

ou will find more details in the AUTISM GUIDE

Resources
Some facts about the relation of Autism and gut microbiome

Some facts about the relation of Autism and gut microbiome

autism and gut microbiome

The relationship between autism and gut microbiome is another area of science that has received much attention. It is now well known that 30-50% of people with autism suffer from significant gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome, and more have microbiome imbalance.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a severe neurodevelopmental or neuropsychiatric disorder. Cognitive disabilities, communication disorders, repetitive patterns of behavior, and limited social interaction and communication are primary signs of autism. Most gastrointestinal problems associated with autism suggest that it is not merely a psychiatric disorder, as many claims, but has a physiological basis, and alleviating gastrointestinal problems can help relieve symptoms. bIntestinal dysbiosis or microbial imbalance can disrupt the coordination of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, which is important in human mental health; as the common saying goes, “fix your gut, fix your brain”.

Microbes in the gut

It has long been a mystery why, but there is now excellent evidence that the complex community of microbes plays a vital role in human development and is essential for a healthy immune and endocrine system as well as the brain.
Some scientists believe that disturbing the natural balance of these “good” bacteria could be a possible cause of autism. Antibiotics, for example, are commonly used in infants in Western societies and are known to kill “good bacteria” along with the “bad” bacteria for which they are prescribed.

Differences in the microbial community humans can rely on during evolution can disrupt brain development and lead to autism. The evidence for this possible cause of autism is not strong, but significant research will be conducted in this area in the coming years.

Autism and gut microbiome

Writing about intestinal health issues can be tricky since so many kinds of issues affect each person in unique ways. However, one thing is certain across the board: the correlation between gastrointestinal health and mental development. Here are some other interesting findings regarding intestinal health and its relationship to autism.

What we know

The gut microbiome is a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms living within the intestinal tract that can impact physical, mental, and social health. In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding how the gut microbiome may affect autism. Research is still ongoing in this area, but some individuals with autism may be missing key organisms necessary for proper brain development. Several studies have shown differences in microbiota composition and microbial metabolites in children with ASD. The connection between gut microbiota and ASD symptoms may be based on the gut-brain axis and immune, hormonal or neuronal pathways. Researchers found strong associations between gut microbiota and ASD symptoms. Studies in mice suggest that the gut microbiome can influence our behavior by acting through the gut-brain axis.

The gut microbiome has recently been shown to impact the development of autism and other neurological disorders.

Recent findings in the field of microbiology show a direct link between brain activity and gut microbes due to the gut-brain axis, demonstrating that the gut microbiota may influence several neurological disorders, such as autism. As we already know, the microbial fermentation of plant-based fibers can produce different levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), which will have different outcomes but definitely affects the gut and the neurological development of autistic children. Intestinal dysbiosis has also been linked to an increased risk for neurobehavioral disorders like autism spectrum disorder. Research has shown that some ASD patients are suffering from gastrointestinal distress; therefore, evidence suggests a direct connection between their conditions due to the increased presence of microbes within their guts. Further study into what makes up this connection—the so-called microbiota-gut-brain axis—may even lead researchers to develop potential treatments for neurological disorders that cause fewer side effects than others (Krajmalnik-Brown et al., 2015).
Restoring the gut microbiome and following a restricted diet free from gluten and casein can help with the symptoms of autism

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Resources

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2022.915701/full#B61