Thursday, January 26, 2017

New clinical trial shows 'promising results' for ASD treatment

The gut microbiota is a fascinating part of the human body; it plays a crucial role in immunity and keeps our bodies healthy. New research suggests that the gut microbiome may even hold the key to a potential treatment for autism.
[girl holding autism sign]
New research shows some promising early results for ASD treatment.
The gut microbiota is the collection of microorganisms living inside our body. We havetens of trillions of microbes living in our guts, totaling more than 3 million genes.
Our gut microbiomes are crucial for our immunity and overall health. They act as a barrier against other harmful microorganisms, and they help with digestion and the production of some vitamins.
Previous research has suggested that the composition of the microbiome influences the development of certain diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, deadly bacteria infections, enterocolitis, and obesity.
Some studies have even linked the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
ASD is a developmental disability affecting approximately 1 in 68 children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
New research, published in the journal Microbiome, examines autism treatment options by improving the gut microbiome........ read more