Doha: A comprehensive study conducted by a research team from the University of California, USA, revealed that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more likely to experience chronic digestive problems.
According to Qatar News Agency, the study evaluated data from more than 300 children with autism, compared to more than 150 children without the disorder, through parental questionnaires and a long-term follow-up period of nearly a decade.
The results, published in the journal “Autism,” showed that children with autism were 50% more likely to initially experience digestive symptoms. Over time, the risk increased significantly, with children four times more likely to experience these symptoms than children without the disorder.
Dr. Christine Wu Nordahl, the study’s lead researcher, said that it’s not about finding a single cause, but rather understanding the child as a whole. She added that supporting digestive health is an important step in improving the quality of life for children with autism.
The researchers noted that the traditional diets common among children with autism, which often rely on low-fiber, processed foods, may increase the risk of digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. They noted that gut bacterial imbalances are common in this group, which may increase the likelihood of symptoms appearing.