Role of the gut-brain axis in the eating behavior of children with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Introduction:The occurrence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has significantly increased in the last few years. One of the common problems in this group are eating disorders and ailments from the gastrointestinal systems. According to some studies, these problems have a significant impact on the occurrence and severity of symptoms in the neurological system, so it is crucial to increase the attention paid on the role of diet in the treatment of this disease. One of the theories connects ASD with disorders of the digestive system and the intestinal bacterial flora. This theory is based on the gut-brain axis, which means the interaction between the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.Objectives:To demonstrate the differences in behavior habits, interest in nutrition, and frequency of consumption of food products between children suffering from ASD and healthy children.Materials and methods:The study was conducted among 44 children suffering from ASD and 33 healthy children as a control group. Data were collected using a questionnaire that was specially designed for this study. The questionnaire contained questions about eating habits and the frequency of consumption of selected food products.Results:Parents of healthy children showed more interest in their children’s way of feeding and nutritional recommendations compared to parents of children with ASD (4% and 11.3%, respectively). In addition, 24.3% more children with ASD consulted with a nutritionist compared to the control group. Complaints of the digestive system were 21.1% more likely by children with ASD. Children suffering from ASD were characterized by a higher intake of red meat and giblets and less frequent consumption of milk and milk products compared to the control group. There were no statistically significant differences between the study group and the control group in terms of frequency of consumption of products, which are the source of gluten, artificial food additives-preservatives, and artificial colors.Conclusions:There are differences in the habits and eating behaviors and the frequency of consumption of selected food products between a group of children with ASD and a group of healthy children.

The link between autism spectrum disorder and gut microbiota: A scoping review

“…More attention is given to the role of diet in treatment of ASD as ailments of the GI system have been shown to significantly affect the occurrence and severity of neurological symptoms of ASD. One interview-based study aimed to demonstrate the differences in behavioral habits and food consumption between children with ASD and controls (Siwek et al, 2017). While there was no statistically significant difference determined between the two groups of children in terms of frequency of consumption of products containing gluten and artificial additives, one notable difference was that neurotypical children consumed more milk and dairy products compared to children with ASD (Siwek et al, 2017).…”

“…One interview-based study aimed to demonstrate the differences in behavioral habits and food consumption between children with ASD and controls (Siwek et al, 2017). While there was no statistically significant difference determined between the two groups of children in terms of frequency of consumption of products containing gluten and artificial additives, one notable difference was that neurotypical children consumed more milk and dairy products compared to children with ASD (Siwek et al, 2017). In response to common claims that gluten-free and casein-free special diets improve behavior in children with ASD, one randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to examine the association between gluten and milk, IP, and behavior in ASD (Navarro et al, 2015).…”

“…ASD: autism spectrum disorder; GI: gastrointestinal; PBMC: peripheral blood mononuclear cells; ADI: autism diagnostic interview; SCFAs: short chain fatty acids; VPA: valproic acid; MIA: maternal immune activation; MTT: microbiota transfer therapy; IP: intestinal permeability; IBD: inflammatory bowel disease. containing gluten and artificial additives, one notable difference was that neurotypical children consumed more milk and dairy products compared to children with ASD (Siwek et al, 2017). In response to common claims that gluten-free and casein-free special diets improve behavior in children with ASD, one randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to examine the association between gluten and milk, IP, and behavior in ASD (Navarro et al, 2015).…”

Autism in Children Connected with Gastrointestinal Symptoms

“…As many as 32% of children with ASD eat red meat several times a week. On the other hand, offal is consumed 1-3 times a month by 25% of examined children with ASD [73]. Offal and red meat are a rich source of iron.…”