World Autism Awarenes Month

Autism Awareness Month

Each April is World Autism Month, also known as Autism Acceptance Month. And, since 2007, the United Nations has declared April 2nd as World Autism Day. 

 

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition characterized by challenges with social interactions, communications, along with restricted interests and activities. Someone with ASD may have difficulty holding a conversation on a topic they are not familiar with or not interested in, may find it difficult to maintain eye contact, and may struggle to interpret someone else’s body language or gestures. ASD is a spectrum, and while some may have very restricted preferences for things like their daily schedules and their food choices, others may not experience this. It is also common for someone with ASD to be hyperreactive or hyporeactive to sensory input, and they may find themselves easily overwhelmed and overstimulated.

 

Autism and the Gut Microbiome

Research has shown that the intestines contain an extensive network of neurons that make up the enteric nervous system, often referred to as the second brain. The vagus nerve connects the enteric nervous system to the central nervous system. This forms what we commonly refer to as the gut-brain axis. 

Microorganisms in our gut produce and regulate neurotransmitters, which then influence the enteric nervous system. It has been shown that Bifidobacterium infantis, which is considered normal flora (AKA good bacteria), can help convert tryptophan into serotonin, which is largely responsible for behaviors, actions, and mood. Lactobacillus spp. and Bacillus spp. are known to regulate and elevate mood by producing metabolites, including serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, all of which can be affected in patients with ASD. Research has also shown that the presence of certain bacteria in the gut microbiome, such as Clostridium spp., may be associated with the development of ASD, but further research is needed. 

 

Stress and Nervous System Support

Stress affects everyone differently, and someone with ASD may have a heightened response to stressors or overstimulation. Knowing their sources of stress, or triggers allows them to avoid or adequately prepare for triggers in advance. This ultimately reduces their chances of being overwhelmed. Breathing techniques, vagus nerve exercises, and daily grounding all help support a healthy nervous system, but we may need to incorporate extra support to reduce sensory overwhelm. Things like sunglasses, headphones or earplugs, or a stress ball may help reduce the risk of overstimulation. 

 

Naturopathic Support

If you or a loved one has received a diagnosis of ASD and are looking for additional support, consider calling our front office to schedule an initial consultation with our naturopathic doctors. Whether you are looking to support your young child through school, or you received a late-life diagnosis and are seeking additional support in navigating it, we would be honored to support you and your family along your journey. 

 

References

Hodges H, Fealko C, Soares N. Autism spectrum disorder: definition, epidemiology, causes, and clinical evaluation. Transl Pediatr. 2020;9(Suppl 1):S55-S65. doi:10.21037/tp.2019.09.09 

 

Taniya MA, Chung HJ, Al Mamun A, et al. Role of Gut Microbiome in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Its Therapeutic Regulation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2022;12:915701. Published 2022 Jul 22. doi:10.3389/fcimb.2022.915701

 

Hodis B, Mughal S, Saadabadi A. Autism Spectrum Disorder. [Updated 2025 Jan 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525976/