The concept of increased intestinal permeability is key to many theories of autism. The integrity of the intestine's mucosal lining plays a critical role in helping the body to adequately absorb nutrients and to block toxins, bacteria, allergens, and other potentially harmful molecules from penetrating into the systemic circulation.

To evaluate the integrity of gut barrier function, a noninvasive Iintestinal Permeability Test measures the rate that two nondigestible sugars, lactulose and mannitol, are excreted in urine after ingesting these substances in a challenge drink.

Using this test, pediatric specialists in Rome discovered that 43% of autistic children had increased permeability (demonstrated by higher amounts of the larger molecule lactulose penetrating the mucosal layer).1 A healthy control group of children, in comparison, all exhibited normal rates of permeability.

"We speculate that an altered intestinal permeability could represent a possible mechanism for the increased passage through the gut mucosa of peptides derived from foods with subsequent behavorial abnormalities," the researchers concluded.

Impaired intestinal permeability could serve as a common link to explain findings that associate autism with autoimmune dysfunction, food allergies, gastrointestinal imbalances, bacterial and fungal overgrowth, as well as nutritional deficiencies of key nutrients such as magnesium, zinc, and tryptophan.2-5

A "leaky gut" arising from impaired intestinal permeability can be induced by a variety of diverse causes, including antibiotics, NSAIDS, enzyme deficiencies, mold and fungal mycotoxins, chemical food additives and poor diet. For a more detailed clinical explanation of intestinal permeability, see Dr. Jake Fratkin's article entitled "Leaky Gut Syndrome".

Great Smokies' Intestinal Permeability Assessment is a non-invasive assessment that measures urinary clearance of two non-metabolized sugar molecules, lactulose and mannitol, to assess increased intestinal permeability and malabsorption. This assessment is can be a critical tool for developing holistic intervention strategies to treat autism.

References:
1 D'Eufemia P, Celli M, Finocchiaro R, Pacifico L, Viozzi L, Zaccagnini M, Cardi E, Giardini O. Abnormal intestinal permeability in children with autism. Acta Paediatr 1996;85(9):1076-9.

2 Horvath K, Papdimitriou CJ, Rabsztyn A, Drachenberg C, Tildon JT. Gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autistic disorder. J Pediatr 1999;135:559-63.

3 Wecker L, Miller SB, Cochran SR, Dugger DL, Johnson WD. Trace element concentrations in hair from autistic children. J Ment Defic Res 1985;29:15-22.

4 Lucarelli S, Frediani T, Zingoni AM, Ferruzi F, Giardinni O, Quinteiri F, Barbato M, DÕEufemia P, Cardi E. Food allergy and infantile autism. Panminerva Med 1995;37(3):137-41.

5 Crooneneberghs J, Delmeire L, Verkerk R, Lin AHJ, Meskal A, Neels H, Van der Planken M, Scharpe S, Deboutte D, Pison G, Maes M. Peripheral markers of serotonergic and noradrenergic function in post-pubertal, causcasian males with autistic disorder. Neuropsychopharamcol 2000;22(3):275-83.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealth institute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.