Bifidobacteria are strains of healthy bacteria that live in the human gut. They are commonly referred to as “probiotics” and are often taken alongside antibiotics to maintain healthy levels of bacteria. Recent research has suggested that these bacteria play a role in the diagnosis and treatment of autism. There may be a correlation between gut symptoms and severity of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
A 2011 study on the relationship between gut bacteria and the severity of autism revealed a connection between the two. Children diagnosed with autism had significantly lower levels of bifidobacteria than non-autistic children. Low levels of bifidobacteria are a biomarker for autism. These decreased levels corresponded to more gastrointestinal (GI) troubles. Ultimately, as the amount of GI problems increased, so did the severity of the autism. Children with many GI problems had higher ATEC (autism treatment evaluation checklist, higher score equals more severe autism) scores than children with fewer GI problems.
Learn more about how genetics impacts bifidobacterium levels here: scientific version and in layman’s terms (includes a video)
What can you do? Talk to your doctor about obtaining lab work to measure your child’s bacterial balance/imbalance. From there, you can determine with your physician, if treatment would be beneficial to your child. We can help you prepare for this conversation with your doctor.
If you want to learn more about potential treatments for ASDs, need help talking to your doctor, or don’t know where to begin, we are here to help. Check out our Empowered Library for more resources to help your child and your family.