Gastrointestinal Issues and Autism
February 22, 2017
If someone asked a layperson,” what are the common issues that face a child with autism?”, many would answer issues with communication, socialization or several other matters related to the disorder. While these issues are common, gastrointestinal problems are among the most common of issues, unfortunately. These issues range from chronic constipation or diarrhea to irritable and inflammatory bowel conditions.
Because gastrointestinal concerns are so common among children with autism, diet often becomes an important part of managing overall comfort and wellbeing. Certain foods may aggravate digestion, while others can support gut balance and regularity. Paying attention to fiber intake, hydration, and the body’s response to specific ingredients can make a noticeable difference in reducing discomfort and supporting daily functioning.
For many families, working with a qualified dietician can provide much-needed clarity. A professional can assess nutritional needs, identify potential sensitivities, and create practical diet recommendations that align with the child’s health requirements and preferences. With the right guidance, nutrition can become a supportive tool that helps improve digestive health and contributes to a better quality of life for both the child and their caregivers.
Food safety can be just as important as food selection, especially for children who may already be dealing with digestive sensitivities. Fresh ingredients, careful washing of produce, proper storage, and attention to expiration dates all help reduce the chances of additional stomach upset. Even small details in meal preparation can make a meaningful difference when a child’s digestive system is already prone to reacting strongly.
In situations where families want extra reassurance about what may be present in certain foods or environments, a drug residue test kit can offer another layer of confidence by helping verify that surfaces, containers, or related items are free from unwanted contaminants. Used alongside thoughtful meal planning and professional dietary guidance, this added focus on safety supports a more controlled and comfortable eating experience, helping protect the child’s wellbeing while giving caregivers greater peace of mind.
According to Autism Research Institute, a recent study has shown just how prevalent GI issues really are within the autism population. The study showed that 70% of the children with ASD had GI Issues compared to 42% of the children with developmental disorder other than ASD. Just like everyone else, people with autism may suffer: Gastritis, GERD, Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, constipation, Motility-based disorders or food allergies and sensitivities. Two of the more common issues involve chronic constipation and chronic diarrhea.
- Chronic Constipation – Although occasional constipation happens to all of us at some time in our lives, chronic constipation can be a serious condition. Because constipation is particularly common among children with autism special dietary restrictions or medication are regularly adhered to. Medication may be needed to keep children and teens regular.
- Chronic Diarrhea – Again, we can all relate to a bout or two of diarrhea in our lifetimes, but chronic diarrhea can be painful and difficult to deal with. Chronic diarrhea may have a number of causes including intestinal infection, immune dysfunction, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis), irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease (gluten intolerance), food allergies, lactose intolerance, or excessive consumption of certain foods such as apple juice. Treatment for this GI problem is usually dependent upon what is causing the issue, whether it is a dietary change, infection or other cause.