The Role of the Gastrointestinal Tract in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Loading...
Authors
Sachsman, Marly
Issue Date
2015
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Naturopathy , Gastrointestinal tract , Autism
Alternative Title
Abstract
Objective - The purpose of this literature review was to determine if there was an component of gastrointestinal involvement in children with autism spectrum disorder. This study reviewed the correlation of gastrointestinal issues in ASD. Additionally specific areas of study that correlate to ASD and GI issues were explored. They included dysbiosis, constipation, neuroinflammation, GI immunity, GFCF diet, and sensory/feeding behaviors. Basic Procedures - The primary search engine used for research was Eureka. Key word phrases searched were “ autism and gastrointestinal”, “autism and immune system”, “autism and neuroinfammation”, “autism and dysbiosis”, “autism and sensory processing”, “autism and constipation”, “autism and holistic healthcare”, “GFCF diet”, “autism, gut, brain connection”. Papers were chosen that were free whole articles and written within the last 10-15 years. Main Finding - Children with ASD suffer from gastrointestinal illnesses that typically go undiagnosed and undertreated. Principle Conclusions - Children with ASD present with challenging behaviors and limited ability to communicate that inhibit the process of assessing, diagnosing and treating their medical conditions. They present with GI compromises that most likely are contributing to their behavioral challenges. The relationship between the compromised gut, immune system and neuroinflammation need to be better understood and treated in order to help restore homeobalance and improved health. As Naturopathic Doctors we are well prepared to address these medical conditions that are the root of autism.
Description
This thesis is being archived as a Digitized Shelf Copy for campus access to current students and staff only. We currently cannot provide this open access without the author's permission. If you are the author of this work and desire to provide it open access or wish access removed, please contact the Wahlstrom Library to discuss permission.
Citation
M. Sachsman, "The Role of the Gastrointestinal Tract in Autism Spectrum Disorder", ND dissertation, College of Naturopathic Medicine, Univ. of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT, 2015.