Recent studies on probiotics demonstrate a positive impact on the quality of life of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), particularly in relation to gastrointestinal health and behaviors associated with the gut-brain axis. Research by Santocchi et al. (2020), published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, showed that probiotic supplementation in children with ASD resulted in significant improvements in gastrointestinal and social symptoms. The study involved 85 children and concluded that modulating the gut microbiota can positively impact adaptive behaviors and the quality of life of autistic children, highlighting the potential of probiotics as a non-pharmacological intervention​ (Nature).

In a study published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology by Arnold et al. (2019), the efficacy of probiotics in improving gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life in autistic children was explored. The randomized, placebo-controlled trial revealed that children who received probiotics experienced a significant reduction in gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and diarrhea, which are commonly associated with ASD. Additionally, parents reported an overall improvement in their children’s mood and behavior, indicating that the benefits of probiotics may extend beyond the digestive tract​ (Nature).

The relationship between the gut-brain axis and cognitive function has also been explored in various studies. The review by Liu et al. (2023), published in the journal Nutrients, highlighted the role of probiotics in improving cognitive functions in children with ASD. The systematic review analyzed clinical trials involving probiotics and concluded that modulating the gut microbiota can contribute to improvements in cognitive and behavioral functions, including attention, memory, and socialization skills, representing a promising advance in the treatment of ASD ​(MDPI).

In addition to gastrointestinal and cognitive improvements, probiotics have also shown efficacy in reducing hyperactivity in children with ASD. In the study by Shaaban et al. (2018), published in Nutritional Neuroscience, researchers observed a significant reduction in hyperactivity levels in children who received probiotics over a six-month period. The supplementation was also associated with a reduction in irritability and stereotypical behaviors, providing further evidence of the behavioral benefits of probiotics​ (Nature).

Another benefit of probiotics is related to improvements in sleep quality, which is often impaired in children with ASD. The study by Parracho et al. (2010), published in the International Journal of Probiotics and Prebiotics, explored the effects of a specific probiotic in children with ASD and reported improvements in sleep, with a reduction in difficulties falling asleep and the number of night awakenings. The researchers suggest that the calming effects of probiotics on the gut may have a direct influence on sleep patterns ​(Nature).

Finally, the relationship between probiotics and reduced hyperactivity was also reinforced by a study conducted by Tomova et al. (2015), published in Physiology & Behavior. This study focused on modulating the microbiota in children with ASD and observed an improvement in hyperactivity control following the administration of probiotics. These results suggest that gut microbiota plays an important role in regulating hyperactive behaviors and other behavioral symptoms in children with ASD​ (Nature).

These studies demonstrate the potential of probiotics as a multifaceted therapeutic tool, with a significant impact on the digestive, cognitive, and behavioral health of children with ASD, reinforcing its relevance as a complementary approach in managing the symptoms of the disorder.