Altered gut microbiota composition and feeding behaviours in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a comparative pilot study.

Researchers studied gut bacteria and eating behaviours in 20 boys (10 with autism, 10 without). They found children with autism had different types of gut bacteria and more eating challenges compared to other children. The gut bacteria differences might be linked to the feeding difficulties commonly seen in autism. This research suggests that gut health could be important to consider when supporting children with autism.

This pilot study compared gut microbiota composition and feeding behaviours between 10 boys with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 10 neurotypical controls, all around 6 years old. Using DNA sequencing of stool samples and feeding behaviour questionnaires, researchers found significant differences in gut bacteria communities between groups. The control group had more Bacteroidota bacteria, while the ASD group showed higher levels of Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, and Proteobacteria. Children with ASD also demonstrated greater feeding-related behavioural challenges as measured by standardised scales.

The findings suggest important connections between gut health, nutrition, and autism, highlighting the need to consider gastrointestinal factors in autism management approaches.

Results suggest gut microbiota assessment and targeted nutritional interventions may benefit children with ASD. Feeding behaviour challenges should be systematically addressed in autism management. Further research needed before clinical implementation of microbiome-based treatments.

Very small sample size (10 per group) limits generalisability. Male-only participants restrict applicability to females. Pilot study design provides preliminary rather than definitive evidence. Cross-sectional design cannot establish causation between gut microbiota differences and autism symptoms.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a prevalent condition with poorly understood aetiology. Studies indicate that children with ASD exhibit more gastrointestinal alterations, nutritional deficiencies due to selective eating, and distinct gut microbiota profiles compared to neurotypical peers. To investigate the differences in gut microbiota composition and feeding behaviours between children with ASD and their typically developing peers. Faecal samples from 10 male children with ASD (mean age 6.2 years), and 10 male neurotypical controls (mean age 6.1 years) were analysed using 16S rRNA sequencing to assess gut microbiota composition.

Guardians completed questionnaires on demographics, birth data, initial feeding habits (i.e. feeding practices after breastfeeding), gastrointestinal symptoms, stool characteristics, and feeding behaviours, which were assessed using the Brief Autism Mealtime Behaviour Inventory (BAMBI) scale. Additionally, a 48-hour dietary recall was collected to analyse the children's nutritional intake. Significant differences in gut microbiota beta diversity were observed. Bacteroidota predominated in the control group, while Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, and Proteobacteria were dominant in the ASD group.

Generaandwere enriched in controls, whereassensu stricto 1,_group,_UCG004, andwere more prevalent in ASD. Comorbidities, sodium intake, and BAMBI scale scores highlighted greater feeding-related behavioural issues in the ASD group. Children with ASD show notable differences in gut microbiota composition and feeding behaviours. The findings emphasise the need to address gastrointestinal and nutritional factors in ASD management.