The number of children with Autism, developmental delays and learning disabilities continues to grow nationwide. A diagnosis of developmental disorders can be tricky as each child is different. However, there have been links between children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, like diarrhoea, constipation and abdominal pain, more so than typical children. Research from several scientific studies has shown that intestinal microbes influence or perhaps even trigger some of the symptoms of Autism, indicating that gut bacteria do play an essential role in Autism spectrum conditions. 

Compiled & Edited By Lauren Nicoll

What Is The Gut Microbiome? 

 The gut microbiome is the ecosystem of tiny microorganisms in our body, composed of bacteria, fungi and viruses – some very beneficial, some not. Scientists are continuously investigating how the gut microbiota affects behaviour and emotion, and the brain. Published studies have long indicated that when there is an imbalance in the gut microbiome, it affects the gut and the mind. When the gut doesn't function well, it can cause a leaky gut meaning unwanted toxins leak into your system due to gut barrier damage, which triggers immune responses in the body to cause numerous health issues. 

>> Gut Health: Why It's An Essential Part Of Our Health 

Links Between Autism, Developmental Delays and ADHD 

Autism is the result of complicated interactions of genetic, non-genetic and environmental factors. According to Scientific American, scientists have long studied if the composition of bacteria in the microbiome may differ in persons with autism spectrum disorders. A string of studies is amenable to the link between Autism and the gut. Researchers at Arizona State University reported "significant differences in the levels of 50 different microbial by-products in the faeces of children with autism to those found in healthy children". 

According to another study carried out by Italian researchers in 2013, published in PLOS ONE, "that in relation to healthy children, those with autism had altered levels of several intestinal bacterial species, including less Bifidobacterium (the group known to promote good intestinal health)" this is why we at BioVitality feel it’s important to balance and support the gut health of those who have ASD, which in turn could help support them with their GI, and behavioural symptoms

At BioVitality, we aim to support the general health of each child using Homeopathy, Functional Nutrition and Supplements. Additionally, Functional Medicine Testing is available for children. We do not diagnose, treat or cure, but help improve the conditions of their day to day life by using the following methods: 

• Supporting the gut: At BioVitality, we use a combination of probiotics, nutrition and homeopathic medicine to achieve optimal health.

• Functional Testing for children on the spectrum: Gene test, MTHFR Gene Test, Comprehensive Stool Test, Hair Test, Organic Acid Test, FIT (Food Inflammation Test) Please note: No functional tests are meant to diagnose 

• Dietary Changes: Children on the Autism spectrum should follow a minimal toxic diet, free of MSG, colour additives, GMO's, preservatives, sugar, or artificial sweeteners. BioVitality puts some children on a wheat or dairy-free diet. We suggest giving your child purified water (without copper or other toxins) and avoiding the use of microwaves and plastic containers. 

• Homeopathy: Constitutional Homeopathy remedies recommended with monthly appointments Supplements: We evaluate and support a balanced nutritional intake when managing Autism Spectrum disorders suited to each patient's specific needs

References: https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism, https://www.spectrumnews.org/news/brain-structure-changes-in-autism-explained/, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html, https://sparkforautism.org/discover/tags/diagnosing-autism/

Disclaimer: No statements made by BioVitality have been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. BioVitality products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

Lauren Nicoll is a former magazine beauty editor and current writer, researcher and content creator who lives in Johannesburg, South Africa with her husband and 6-year-old son diagnosed with ASD and ADHD