Can Oxytocin, the hugging hormone, and probiotics reduce Autism Behaviors and Improve Social Skills? Results from A Recent Clinical Trial
The gut is one of the most crucial areas affected in autism. There are imbalances present in the gut, like low levels of healthy bacteria (bifido bacteria). In a clinical trial conducted in the Massachusetts General Hospital, thirty-five autistic patients were supplemented with a particular probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum PS128) for twenty-eight weeks.
After sixteen weeks with the probiotic, oxytocin nasal spray was used with probiotic until the end of treatment. The dosage of oxytocin spray was 32 IU daily.
The combination of probiotic and oxytocin Improved different scales of social behavior, including a significant clinical effect reported after an evaluation from the physicians.
An imbalance of oxytocin, the social bonding hormone, is present in autism, and providing oxytocin may provide relief in this area. Oxytocin can benefit gut function and may be increased by beneficial probiotics like Lactobacillus reuteri.
Make them healthy and their behavior will improve!
There is Hope for Autism!
References:
Kong, X. J., Liu, J., Liu, K., Koh, M., Sherman, H., Liu, S., ... & Song, Y. (2021). Probiotic and Oxytocin Combination Therapy in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial. Nutrients, 13(5), 1552.