PRELIMINARY DATA ON THE LINK BETWEEN THE INTESTINAL MICROBIOME AND AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Abstract
Today autism is an extremely serious problem. Although the number of the children born with this pervasive developmental disorder has increased, the causes of its occurrence have not yet been identified. Aim: We want to demonstrate that the severity of gastrointestinal disorders would be related to the worsening of symptoms in people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Analyzing the intestinal microbiome is particularly important for people with autism because an imbalance in the intestinal microbiome affects their good physical and mental development. Materials and methods: In our study, we highlighted the importance of a suitable diet for a better development of children with autism. Children with ASD are at a significantly increased risk of chronic gastrointestinal problems from an early age. The underlying mechanism to explain how gastrointestinal dysfunction can affect autism spectrum disorder behaviors has led to the idea that the microbiome-gut-brain axis contributes to behavioral and cognitive disorders. Results: These children have a high prevalence of intestinal transit disorders such as constipation, a fact that influences the severity of symptoms in ASD. The results of our research indicate an increased prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms among children with ASD compared to the control group. Conclusions: Intestinal dysbiosis can influence the severity of symptoms in autism. An understanding of the mechanisms by which the microbiome-gut-brain axis acts will lead to the use of therapeutic strategies.
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