New evidence is adding to previous research showing that Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) has a positive impact on the social functioning of children with autism.
Published in Cell Host and Microbe, the study found that the bacteria—formerly called Lactobacillus reuteri—improved some social function markers related to autistic behavior. Though it involved a small cohort of 43 children, the study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, considered a gold standard for quality research.
The study builds on previous research showing that oxytocin—often called the “love hormone” that helps with human bonding—delivered intranasally to children with autism may help with social deficits. Manipulating the microbiome specifically by increasing levels of L. reuteri has been shown to be another way to increase oxytocin and improve mental health....
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