Does Harvard's research on the “2nd Brain” suggest a new and effective way to treat the symptoms of Autism?
There’s been a tidal wave of research pouring in from the likes of Harvard and Johns Hopkins Medicine revealing the quickest and most effective way to ease the symptoms of autism may be through, what they’re calling, “the 2nd brain”…AKA The “Gut”
In fact, recently, a review of over 150 papers on ASD and gut bacteria found scientists have been reporting links between bacteria in the gut and autistic behavior since 1960.
The review highlights several studies showing that restoring a healthy balance in gut bacteria can ease the symptoms of ASD.
The Gut-Brain Axis in plain English
To begin to understand the mechanics of the research and why thousands of parents are already implementing strategies based on the studies…and seeing dramatic results…
It’s important to start with the dynamic communication between the gut and the brain.
Let me explain…
- Have you ever felt nauseous before giving a speech?
- Ever had a “gut feeling” not to do something?
- Butterflies in your stomach when you get nervous?
How about experiencing your mood change when you devour the leftover mac n’ cheese?...(There’s a reason they call it “comfort food”).
Well, that’s because there’s a direct line of communication from your gut to your brain. Yes, your gut actually speaks to your brain (and vice versa). The area in your gut responsible for communicating is known as your Enteric Nervous System (EDS).
“The enteric nervous system doesn’t seem capable of thought as we know it, but it communicates back and forth with our big brain—with profound results.”
- Jay Pasricha, M.D.,
Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Neurogastroenterology
In fact, the area of your brain that your gut communicates most with is responsible for:
- Mood
- Sociability
- Mental Health
- Human Connection
This holds true for a host of other variables affected by ASD. Interestingly enough, more than 70% of people with autism also have gastro problems and issues related to their gut.
“…many children with autism have abnormal communities of digestive bacteria in their intestines. And some of these studies have associated specific types of gut bacteria with more-severe autism symptoms.”
- Paul Wang
Autism Speaks