Project 1
The ASD UK Twins Study
At ScienceMamasHQ, we are dedicated to helping advance the health and well-being of children, including those who have autism diagnosis, through science-based approaches. Our first research project, The ASD UK Twins Study, represents a pivotal step towards understanding how nutrition, thyroid function, and gut health intersect to influence the lives of autistic children.
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As autism diagnoses rise globally, we recognise the urgent need to investigate holistic approaches to better support autistic individuals. Emerging evidence suggests that nutritional deficiencies, thyroid imbalances, and gut dysbiosis play significant roles in shaping the severity of autism-related symptoms. This study seeks to address these critical factors by focusing on autistic twins, offering an unparalleled opportunity to examine the interplay between genetics, environment, and health outcomes.
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Project Aim
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The study will explore the relationship between nutritional status, thyroid function, and the gut microbiome in autistic children, with the ultimate goal of identifying effective, science-based interventions. By addressing key deficiencies in essential nutrients like iodine and selenium, and evaluating their connection to thyroid health and gut microbial balance, we aim to help uncover new strategies to enhance the well-being and functional abilities of autistic children.
Nutritional Insights
Generate comprehensive nutritional profiles of autistic twins, particularly focusing on deficiencies in vital micronutrients such as B vitamins, iodine, selenium, and more. The researchers we support will investigate the correlation between these deficiencies and the severity of ASD symptoms, alongside their influence on cognitive and metabolic functions.

Thyroid Health
Examine thyroid hormone levels in relation to nutritional markers, particularly iodine and selenium, to better understand how thyroid dysfunction contributes to autism symptomatology. A focus will be placed on the potential impact of impaired thyroid function, including its effect on vitamin B2 metabolism, on the health of autistic children.

Gut Microbiome Analysis
Analyse stool samples to uncover variations in gut microbiome diversity between autistic and neurotypical twins. By identifying specific microbial imbalances, the researchers hope to shed light on the brain-gut axis and its role in ASD, potentially informing new microbiome-targeted therapies.

Interconnected Findings
Establish clear links between nutritional deficiencies, thyroid hormone imbalances, and gut microbiome diversity. By identifying how these factors combine to influence ASD severity, the researchers aim to provide deeper insights into integrative strategies for managing autism through nutrition and gut health.
Actionable Interventions
Based on research findings, targeted nutritional and microbiome-based interventions will be developed, such as dietary modifications and supplementation, aimed at improving thyroid function, correcting deficiencies, and restoring gut balance. These interventions have the potential to alleviate challenging symptoms and enhance the quality of life for autistic children.

Long-term Impact
The study will contribute to the development of comprehensive clinical guidelines for managing autism through nutrition and gut health, ultimately providing families, healthcare providers, and public health authorities with practical tools to improve the lives of autistic individuals.

This research is being strengthened by the expertise of leading scientists:
Professor Glenn Gibson (University of Reading), ranked among the UK’s top microbiologists and globally recognised for his contributions to gut microbiome research.
Professor Adele Costabile (University of Roehampton), whose work in nutrition and gut health ranks in the top 1% of highly cited articles in the field.
Dr Ritika Kapoor (King’s College London), a neuroendocrinology expert committed to exploring innovative health solutions.
Together, they aim to harmonise knowledge across disciplines to develop holistic approaches that can improve outcomes for autistic children.
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Please note that research collaborators are not directly or indirectly associated with any health protocols.
If you would like full project costings please click here or more details please request our full project proposal by dropping us an email.
