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Healing from Within: How Clostridia Affects Brain Development in Children with Autism

Healing from Within: How Clostridia Affects Brain Development in Children with Autism

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 Lara is joined by Vicky Finlayson from Happy Healthy Unicorn to discuss the impact of Clostridia, a type of bacteria found in the gut, on children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Vicky explains how Clostridia can contribute to various symptoms by disrupting the microbiome and affecting brain health, particularly through the inhibition of dopamine processing. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding the underlying causes of these symptoms, the significance of proper testing, and the necessity of laying a strong foundation for health before addressing bacterial imbalances. Vicky shares inspiring success stories of children who have shown remarkable improvements through dietary changes and targeted interventions, emphasising the need for patience and consistency in the healing journey. This episode aims to empower parents with knowledge and practical strategies to support their children's development and well-being. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding Clostridia: Clostridia is a type of bacteria found in the gut, with both commensal and pathogenic forms. Pathogenic forms, such as Clostridium difficile, can contribute to various symptoms seen in children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Impact on Brain Health: Clostridia can inhibit the enzyme dopamine beta-hydroxylase, which is crucial for converting dopamine into norepinephrine. This disruption can lead to an excess of dopamine, affecting behaviour, attention, and cognitive functions, and potentially exacerbating symptoms of ADHD and autism. Role of Diet and Gut Health: A poor diet, particularly one high in refined carbohydrates, can deplete beneficial gut bacteria, allowing Clostridia to thrive. Addressing dietary habits and improving gut health is essential for managing clostridial infections and their associated symptoms. Importance of Testing: An organic acids test is recommended for accurately identifying Clostridia and its toxins. However, it is crucial to lay a solid foundation of health through diet and lifestyle changes before conducting tests, as an unhealthy state can allow Clostridia to return. BEST MOMENTS "Clostridia is like one big player in that... it's part of the picture typically for our kids." - Vicky "It's actually the toxins that Clostridia produces that can be the most harmful thing." - Vicky "If you think dopamine is meant to degrade naturally into norepinephrine and it doesn't do that, the clostridia will block that enzyme." - Vicky "If you do it in that order, it creates sustained healing." - Lara HOST BIOLara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ www.braindevelopment.co.uk GUEST BIO Vicky, founder of The Happy Healthy Unicorn, is mum to her inspiring autistic daughter, Rose. With a BSc in Human Biology, she initially planned to work as an NHS dietitian, but her daughter’s needs changed her path. Immersing herself in research on autism and neurodevelopment, she focused on root-cause healing and whole-person care. Rose’s transformation shaped Vicky’s mission: combining scientific knowledge, lived experience, and empathy to support families. Today, she provides compassionate, science-backed guidance through The Happy Healthy Unicorn. ⁠The Happy Healthy Unicorn - Autism, Nutrition⁠
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