Creating a pathway for a healthy gut has received a lot of attention for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Specifically, recent studies have been directed at investigating whether increasing fiber and improving gut health can improve communication and other cognitive functions. More work is needed from the scientific community in this area. Below we provide some of the framework behind these suggestions. But first, let’s start with what research is suggesting.
According to Bibiana Restrepo et al, published for the International Society for Austism Research in 2020, p. 1778, “Children with ASD were three times more likely to experience GI symptoms than typically developing peers. Increased GI symptoms are associated with increased problem behaviors such as sleep problems, self-injury, and body aches. Since GI symptoms are often treatable, it is important to recognize them as soon as possible.” The culprit for GI symptoms and those with ASD may stem from selective eating, diet restrictions or food sensitivities. The link between gut health and autism symptoms has gained momentum at numerous health institutes and universities across the globe. Ongoing studies aim to discover whether improving gut health can lead to improvement in symptoms related to ASD. Gut health requires a delicate balance of healthy gut bacteria. These bacteria can be impacted by both prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics help feed healthy bacteria while probiotics introduce new bacteria to support the gut. Fiber is also used in the gut as a “cleaning tool” to help rid the body of unwanted waste. Soluble fiber and its role as a prebiotic to support the healthy gut bacteria may play a role at improving gut health and regularity.
A peer reviewed article titled “The Gut Microbiota and Autism Spectrum Disorders” evaluated the role of the gut microbiota in the pathology of ASD. This article suggests that there may be potential interventions within the gut microbiota that may also have therapeutic benefits for those with ASD. Prebiotics have a positive impact on healthy gut bacteria that already exist within our intestinal tract. An additional study published by the International Journal of Molecular Science, “ The Possible Role of Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis Autism Spectrum Disorder” concluded that, “the correlation between changes in distinct bacterial populations and several bacterial metabolites, and the behavioral changes related to ASD warrant further investigations into the microbiota-gut-brain-axis aiming at in-depth examination of mechanisms leading to the pathology of autism”. It remains yet to be unequivocally determined whether dysbiosis is a factor causing ASD, or if the disease is causing the microbial alterations. The mutual correlation between ASD and alterations of microbiota, however, has been undoubtedly confirmed by many animal and human studies.
HyFiber for Kids is a soluble liquid fiber with FOS prebiotics. There are no allergens to consider such as gluten, eggs, dairy, peanuts or nuts. In a small serving of citrus flavored liquid, this can be consumed alone or mixed with your child’s favorite beverage. HyFiber for kids contains six grams of fiber per serving and includes FOS PREBIOTICS to promote intestinal health and bowel regularity for your child. Although the HyFiber product line has been found safe and given all over the world without side effects, always discuss the use of medical food products with your healthcare provider.
Sources
- Angel Belle C. Dy, Randi J Hagerman, Ying Han, Qinrui Li. (2017). The Gut Microbiota and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience. 11(120). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5408485/ on 01/03/2021.
- Bibiana Restrepo, Kathleen Angkustsiri, Sandra L. Taylor, Sally J Rogers, Jacqueline Cabral, Brianna Heath, Alexa Hechtman, Marjorie Solomon, Paul Ashwood, David G. Amaral, Christine Wu Nordahl. (2020). Developmental-behavioral profiles in children with autism spectrum disorder and co-occurring gastrointestinal symptoms. Autism Research: official journal of the International Society for Austism Research. 13(10):1778-1789. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32767543/ on 01/03/2021.
- M. Hasan Mohajeri, Piranavie Srikantha. (2019). The Possible Role of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis in Austism Spectrum Disorder. International Journal of Molecular Science. May; 20(9): 2115. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6539237/ on 01/03/2021.