Introduction
The author reviews and discusses G.I. issues found in autistic individuals including the effects of G.I. abnormalities on behavior issues as well as medical issues.
Findings
- Historically, 7 out of the 11 children that Leo Kanner described in his study included children having eating/feeding problems.
- The most common problems include chronic constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Gastroesophageal reflux, bloody stools, vomiting and gaseousness are also elevated in some individuals diagnosed with autism.
- Continued research is needed in this area to better understand the correlation.
Reference
Hsiao, E. (2014). Gastrointestinal Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Harvard Review of Psychiatry. 22(2) 104-111