Autism Linked To Gastrointestinal Issues? Study Examines A Possible Connection

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 68 children will deal with an Autism Spectrum disorder in his or her lifetime, disproportionately affecting boys more than girls. (1 in 42 among boys and 1 in 189 among girls.)

New findings published in JAMA Psychiatry show that children dealing with the behavioral issue are also more likely to deal with certain gastrointestinal issues.

For the study, researchers analyzed information from 195 children with ASDs. Other children were also involved in the research, including children in Norway whose mothers had answered questions regarding their child's health during infancy and early childhood. This also included over 40,000 children with typical development who did not have autism and 4,363 children who had other types of developmental delays. Following completion of the study, some were also diagnosed with developmental problems. 

Survey results showed that children with autism dealt with higher symptoms relating to gastrointestinal troubles, including food intolerance, constipation and allergies. Many of the symptoms also seemed to stick with age for those with autism by 18 months and into 3 years and counting.

These children were also more than twice as likely to have at least one gastrointestinal symptom during both of these age ranges when compared to those with other developmental delays or typical development.

However, researchers are still uncertain of the link between autism and behavioral health issue. For instance, because of related symptoms, the diets of children with autism may be different than those with the condition because children with autism may prefer different foods or be difficult to chose meals for.

Yet the diets of children with autism have been found to be relatively no different than counterparts, overall, in previous studies. Genetics may also play some type of role in autism and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, future studies are necessary determine a link between them.