The Yeast Connection

Many people with autism are infected with Candida albicans. Why? The gut has a living environment, or flora, of microorganisms. Yeast is but one organism that lives in the gut. A healthy immune system keeps the various organisms in balance, but an infection occurs when the balance is thrown off and the yeast population dominates other flora residents.

This can happen any time the immune system is depressed, either through illness or because a person is taking antibiotic medication for a bacterial infection. A person may be genetically predisposed to improper immune responses, and there is also evidence that the immune system is being damaged by an environmental toxin. For whatever reason, any time a bacteria, fungus or parasite dominates the intestinal flora, “gut dysbiosis” results.

According to chemist William Shaw, the waste products excreted by excessive yeast may be absorbed from the gut and wreak havoc on the brain by mimicking neurotransmitters. Further, yeast infections can damage the mucosal lining of the gut and lead to increased permeability. Of even greater concern is the ease with which yeast can become systemic and perhaps increase the permeability of the blood brain barrier.

When yeast is a problem, the diet must be restricted even further. In addition to removing gluten and casein, all sources of sugar must be avoided, because yeast feeds on sugar. Fermented and potentially moldy foods must also be restricted. Often a non-systemic antifungal medication, such as Nystatin, is used, but for extremely persistent yeast infections, doctors often must prescribe stronger medications.

Fortunately, yeast infections can usually be cleared up within a few months. Many children on the autistic spectrum have shown great improvement in bowel and behavioral symptoms once yeast infections are cured.

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