For many years, scientists and doctors have speculated why as many as 90% of people with autism also have gut issues. Research from 2019 confirmed the gut-brain link in autism. The study was published in the journal Autism Research. It found that the same gene mutation that disrupts neuron communication in the brain also contributes to gut dysfunction
The exciting research opens the door to potential new treatments targeting the gut to improve the quality of life for people with autism, which is also called autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is characterized by learning disabilities, developmental delays, abnormal social and communication skills, and other behavior issues.
5 steps to better gut health
If you or a loved one have ASD, here are 5 ways to promote better gut health that have already been linked to an improvement in autism symptoms.
1. Eliminate dairy
Remember this old advertisement: “Milk: It does a body good”? Unfortunately, it’s not true for those with autism. Milk does NOT do an autistic body (or brain) good! Milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, and other dairy foods contain a protein known as casein. As dairy foods are digested, casein contributes to the release of substances called exorphins that bind to the brain’s opiate receptors. This causes brain fog, problems concentrating, and a spacy feeling. Eliminating dairy from the diet has decreased hyperactivity and increased communication in some people with autism.
2. Go gluten-free
Research shows that people with autism are more sensitive to gluten, a protein in wheat, rye, barley, and other grains that can also be found in everyday food items like ketchup, salad dressing, and soy sauce. Gluten disrupts the balance of gut bacteria and contributes to inflammation and an increased risk of leaky gut. This also leads to the malabsorption of nutrients and interferes with the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which can raise the risk of issues like anxiety, mood problems, and mental difficulties. Some parents who have eliminated gluten from their autistic child’s diet have noticed improvements in behavior and communication symptoms.
3. Eliminate food dyes and artificial additives
This takes a bit more effort and means eliminating most processed foods. They all contain red dye #40, which has been linked to hyperactivity, nervousness, trouble concentrating, and more. A growing body of evidence found that other food additives can alter gut bacteria and are linked to mood problems, behavioral issues, and other neuropsychological issues. It is important to eliminate them from the diet for a person with autism.
4. Reduce or eliminate sugar consumption
Consuming simple carbohydrates can reduce the levels of good bacteria in the gut. Imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to inflammation as well as mood problems, impulsivity, and other issues. Sugar also raises the risk for the erratic firing of neurons. Avoiding sugar is critical for people with ASD.
5. Add probiotics and prebiotics to the diet
Probiotic and prebiotic foods and supplements help restore the balance of healthy gut bacteria. Probiotic-rich foods include fermented foods that contain live bacteria, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, unsweetened yogurt, kefir, kombucha tea, and miso soup. Prebiotics support and promote the growth of probiotics. Look for products that contain both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains.