Nutritional supplement shows promise for those with ASD: Study – NutraIngredients-usa.com

Research shows that digestive problems and autism often go hand in hand. Indeed, one study found that autistic children are seven times more likely to experience frequent diarrhea and colitis than those without a developmental disability. Another study found about half of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have gastrointestinal challenges.
The gut-brain axis
Many of these gastrointestinal issues experienced are due to inflammation from food allergies and digestive issues, which can also present behavioral issues. Additionally, those with ASD also are more at risk for nutritional deficiencies, which can adversely affect immune responses.
To offset these responses, integrative approaches such as dietary changes and adding vitamins, minerals, and fish oil supplements are often tried.
One recent study in the peer-reviewed journal, Alternative Therapies, examined the effectiveness of the whole food complete vitamin and meal replacement product, IQed. The research was funded by Cherab Foundation, a global nonprofit that works to improve the communication skills, education, and advocacy of children on the neurological spectrum.
The study
According to the report, the study aimed to help with future research into the dietary interventions and potential management of neurological conditions with a focus on improving the quality of daily living and specific developmental milestones for children and adults with disabilities.
Researchers studied an international subject pool of 77 participants to determine the effectiveness of specific food blends and nutrients on speech and motor impairments within a sample population of adults and children who self-report having communication delays and/or motor dysfunction symptoms, and who are among a population currently taking IQed.