The human gut is home to approximately 100 trillion microorganisms.
“The bugs in your gut determine more about your health and your emotional and mental well-being than you ever imagined.” – Dr. Mark Hyman
Research has found that children with autism are six to eight times more likely to have gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, including constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Treating GI symptoms can sometimes relieve the behavioral and social symptoms of autism.
Researchers have been looking at the gut-brain connection, as well as the association between gut health and autism symptoms, for many years.
A 2019 study looked at the gut microbiome in children with autism. “We treated children with autism by altering the gut microbiota. All had gastrointestinal symptoms — diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain — and those symptoms were reduced dramatically, and their behavior improved as well,” said study senior author Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown.
A healthy gut supports optimal gastrointestinal function, regulates metabolism, and makes up more than 75% of our immune system. An unhealthy gut has been linked to autism, inflammatory bowel disease, type 1 diabetes, depression, and autoimmune diseases.
Chronic stress, overuse of antibiotics, chronic inflammation, chronic illness, and diet can all wreak havoc on your gut.
When we heal the gut, we heal the brain. Healthier microorganisms in the gut can send chemicals to the brain that support children in learning. When gut health is restored and children no longer have pain from digestive issues, they feel better and are better able to focus on learning and playing.
Support your gut health with these health and wellness lifestyle changes:
- Take care of yourself (physical, emotional, and mental health) to lower stress levels
- Drink water
- Sleep 7-8 hours
- Exercise & movement
- Eat your food slowly, distraction free
Support your gut health with these foods:
- Bone broth
- Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, etc.)
- Whole (unprocessed) foods
- Fiber-rich foods
Support your gut health with these supplements:
- Probiotics
- Zinc
- Vitamin A
- Omega-3 fats
- l-glutamine
Always talk to your doctor before implementing any medical changes.
When we focus on gut health, we improve brain health. Take one step up today to heal the gut through diet and lifestyle changes. When we feel better, we learn better.
Lisa Zaharioudakis
Behavior Analyst + Holistic Health Coach. Focusing on addressing the symptoms of autism through nutrition and wellness. M.Ed. in Early Childhood Special Education from The University of Washington. Holistic Health Coach Certified from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition.