Symptoms we often associate with autism—such as anxiety, tics, and inattention—can be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically glutamate and GABA. However, reducing the amount of free glutamate in the brain can help alleviate these symptoms. In this article, we will outline why it is important to balance glutamate and GABA, symptoms to look for, and interventions that are helpful.
Glutamate
Glutamate is a neurotransmitter responsible for brain signaling. Imbalances in glutamate levels can disrupt neural communication and contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ASD.