Candida Albicans and Clinical Findings in Children with Autism

In children with autism, an overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus in the intestine can cause various gastrointestinal problems and neurological symptoms. Candida albicans overgrowth is manifested by increased gas production, especially after consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods, changes in stool consistency and often constipation. It also contributes to the exacerbation of behavioral problems seen in autism and to the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD).

Increased intestinal permeability has been associated with this fungal excess and may cause perianal itching and worsening of atopic/dermatologic diseases. In addition, more serious problems such as liver dysfunction and recurrent vaginal yeast infections can occur.

Overgrowth of yeasts in the intestine can have harmful effects on the liver by fermenting sugars to produce ethanol (alcohol). Proper diagnosis, treatment and diet programs are essential to prevent this condition.

What clinical findings are associated with an excess of Candida albicans in the intestines of children with autism?
The excessive proliferation of Candida albicans in the intestines can cause the following symptoms in children with autism:

• Increase in gastrointestinal complaints

• Increased gas production, especially after the consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods.

• Change in stool consistency/mostly constipation

• It can contribute to the emergence/increase of behavioral problems seen in autism.

• An increase in the tendency for Attention Deficit/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/ADHD) that can accompany autism may be observed.

• It can trigger an increase in intestinal permeability.

• Perianal itching

• Worsening of atopic/dermatological diseases

• Fatigue

• Swellings and pain

• Disruption of liver functions*

• Unexplained elevation in liver enzymes (AST/ALT)*

• Recurring vaginal yeast infections

*Yeasts that increase in number in the intestines ferment excess carbohydrates (sugars) and convert them into ethanol (alcohol), and even though the person does not consume alcohol, the alcohol produced through this pathway can cause harmful toxic effects on the liver.

To prevent this situation, for clinical treatment and follow-up;

1. Correct diagnostic methods

2. Correct treatment methods

3. Proper diet and nutrition

should be applied.