The level of arabinitol in autistic children after probiotic therapy

Nutrition. 2012 Feb;28(2):124-6. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2011.08.002. Epub 2011 Nov 12.

Abstract

Objective: The level of D-arabinitol (DA) and the ratio of D-/L-arabinitol (DA/LA) in the urine of children with autism were investigated. The changes in DA/LA after probiotic treatment in urine samples of children with autism were studied.

Methods: DA and LA and the DA/LA ratio were identified by capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry in urine before and after the probiotic therapy.

Results: The level of DA is significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the urine of autistic children before (A) and after probiotic supplementation (A1) (160.04 ± 22.88 μmol/mmol creatinine and 89.53 ± 37.41 μmol/mmol creatinine, respectively). Nonetheless, the probiotic supplementation let to a significant decrease in DA and DA/LA and to a significant improvement in ability of concentration and carrying out orders.

Conclusion: The use of probiotics seems to be helpful in reducing the level of DA and the ratio of DA/LA in the urine of children with autism.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attention* / drug effects
  • Autistic Disorder / complications
  • Autistic Disorder / therapy*
  • Autistic Disorder / urine
  • Candidiasis / complications
  • Candidiasis / therapy*
  • Candidiasis / urine
  • Child
  • Child Behavior*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Female
  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
  • Humans
  • Isomerism
  • Male
  • Probiotics / therapeutic use*
  • Sugar Alcohols / urine*

Substances

  • Sugar Alcohols
  • arabitol