The recent investigation into the role of the gut microbiome in human health has brought a significant revelation to light. Gut Microbiota, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses, reside in the digestive tracts of humans from birth throughout life. They are pivotal in controlling digestion, immune response, central nervous system functioning, and several body processes. An intriguing link has been observed between the composition of the gut microbiome and the occurrence of various diseases, including Autism and Crohn’s disease.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An Overview
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders. The disorder manifests during the first three years of a person’s life, marking a complex brain development disability. Contrary to popular belief, ASD is not synonymous with mental retardation; patients may exhibit excellent skills in various domains like art, music, and writing. The intellectual functioning in individuals with ASDs varies greatly, from profound impairment to superior levels.
The Causes behind Autism
The exact etiology or cause of ASD remains inconclusive. However, various environmental and genetic factors likely contribute to increasing a child’s propensity for ASD. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in 100 children suffer from ASD. The disease is characterized by impaired social interactions, restricted verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and repetitive behaviour patterns.
Managing Autism Symptoms
While there is no cure for autism, its symptoms can be managed effectively with appropriate intervention methods like evidence-based psychosocial interventions, behavioural treatment, skills training programmes for parents and caregivers, health promotion, care, and rehabilitation services.
Gut Microbiome: A potential Link to Autism?
The human microbiome plays a crucial role in several host processes, including growth, development, physiology, immunity, nutrition, and disease. The gut microbiome significantly impacts immune modulation and metabolic activities in the human body. While some scientists argue against the role of the gut microbiome in ASDs, research indicates that abnormalities in the gut microbiome can create toxic metabolites and halt synthesis of necessary neurotransmitters involved in cognition, behaviour, mood, and sleep. Hence, rectifying these abnormalities in ASD patients may reduce the toxic burden and help achieve the necessary neurotransmitter synthesis pathways.
Initiatives Related to ASD
Various initiatives aim at providing rights and support to individuals with ASD. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals concern the rights of people with disabilities including autism. The Right of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, expanded the types of disabilities from seven to 21, including Autism Spectrum Disorder. In 2014, over 60 countries backed a WHO resolution titled “Comprehensive and coordinated efforts for the management of ASD”. The United Nations General Assembly declared 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day in 2008.
Understanding Probiotics
Probiotics are a combination of live beneficial bacteria and/or yeasts that naturally live in the human body. One such probiotic bacterium is Acidophilus, which occurs naturally in the human gut and aids in breaking down sugars into lactic acid. These microorganisms are present in foods and can also be consumed as supplements in various forms.
