Hello I am Dr. Risha Sharma, Ayurvedic physician, naturopath, functional medicine practitioner and founder of Wishfulhealing Clinic, Chandigarh.

For the past 11 years, I have had the privilege of working directly with individuals across the globe, with a special focus on children on the autism spectrum and their families. 

Through consultations, personalized support programs, and collaborative efforts in diverse cultural and geographic settings, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges many face, including gastrointestinal issues that often accompany autism. These real-world experiences have deepened my understanding of how the trillions of microbes in our gut—collectively known as the gut microbiome—play a pivotal role far beyond digestion.

Emerging research continues to illuminate the gut-brain axis: the bidirectional communication pathway linking our intestinal microbes to brain function, behavior, and neurodevelopment. Studies show that children with autism frequently exhibit distinct microbiome profiles, with alterations that may influence symptoms through immune modulation, metabolite production, and neural signaling. I’ll be sharing key insights from both science and my practical work with families, highlighting potential implications for support strategies, dietary approaches, and future directions. I’m excited to dive in and discuss how nurturing our gut ecosystem might open new possibilities for well-being.