The feeding concern most commonly observed in children with autism is food selectivity, or eating a limited variety of foods. This most often involves preference for starches and snack foods and more frequent rejection of fruits and vegetables.
Research also tells us that many individuals with autism tend to have strong preferences for carbohydrates and processed foods, while rejecting fruits and vegetables. This, too, may reflect an aversion to strong tastes and textures.
I counsel families to start by having their child sit at the table with them or another family member – even if it's just for one minute to start. With praise and small rewards, gradually increase the time at the table to around 20 minutes. At first, reassure your child that eating isn't necessary.
A recent review of scientific studies found that children with autism are five times more likely to have mealtime challenges such as extremely narrow food selections, ritualistic eating behaviors (e.g. no foods can touch) and meal-related tantrums.
Offer your child the same food as the rest of the family is eating, even if you think she'll refuse it. Allow her to sit at the table while the rest of you eat. As I mentioned earlier, the look, smell and proximity of the food can help her make progress to eating more foods in the future.
Sensory issues: Children with autism often have strong preferences for certain textures and temperatures. Some kids prefer soft, creamy foods like purees or even baby food. Others need the extra stimulation of crunchy foods. In every case, sensory preferences can limit what kids are willing to eat.
Such food behaviours can include very limited food preferences, hypersensitivity to food textures or temperatures, and pocketing food without swallowing. A diet could be primarily made up of pasta, bread and chicken nuggets with little desire to try new foods and different textures.
Kids with autism can be extremely selective when it comes to eating. An estimated 46–89% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have feeding problems. ASD children struggle with sensory defensiveness, a need for routine and sameness, and visual overstimulation which makes expanding the palate difficult.
A child with ASD may have trouble processing sensations, such as touch, smell and taste. He may also have difficulty processing feelings of hunger, thirst and fullness. If he is oversensitive, he may prefer foods that are bland and soft or he may even avoid eating.
The taste of chicken nuggets is not overwhelming, a characteristic which is welcome to children with sensory issues. Research suggests that “many individuals with autism tend to have strong preferences for carbohydrates and processed foods, while rejecting fruits and vegetables.
Some more recommended food items that help autism symptoms include: Prebiotic-rich foods (apples, asparagus, leeks, garlic, onions, bananas, and chicory root) Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, and cultured vegetables like kimchi)
Sensory issues, routines and rules around food, and interoception challenges make it harder for many autistic people to eat and judge their body's food needs. Understanding the root of the disordered eating behaviors will help an autistic person and their support system figure out what the best supports will be.
High amounts of sugar in a diet are not good for anyone but especially children with autism. It is common for children with autism to show signs of hyperactivity so limiting sugar can help to balance this out. Also, limiting sugar can help to improve concentration and decrease impulsiveness.
Autistic children often enjoy sensory toys because they help them feel calm and engage their senses in a positive way. Sensory toys can include weighted stuffed animals, fidget toys, and putty. When looking for a toy for an autistic child, keep in mind their interests and their developmental stage.
Many times, children with autism only stick to “beige” foods like plain pasta, bread, and chicken nuggets. Obviously, this leads to concern over their nutritional needs and often generates stress and conflicts around mealtimes.
Eating problems are common in autistic people.
Issues such as only eating very few foods, not being able to eat at school, going long periods of time without eating and pica (eating non-foods) can feel difficult to understand and manage.
Many autistic people experience hypersensitivity to bright lights or certain light wavelengths (e.g., LED or fluorescent lights). Certain sounds, smells, textures and tastes can also be overwhelming. This can result in sensory avoidance – trying to get away from stimuli that most people can easily tune out.
Of course, autistic individuals laugh when they are happy, or if they find something funny. However, they often laugh to release fear, tension and anxiety. What is very difficult for their parents to comprehend (and accept) is that they might laugh or giggle non-stop when someone is crying.
Sensory issue:
As a result, they would cram their mouths with food in order to heighten the sensation, but it would be too much for them to swallow. This is a regular occurrence in children with autism and sensory processing disorder, and it may necessitate more intensive treatment.
Food Selectivity or Picky Eating
Food selectivity is especially common in children with autism spectrum disorder. The cause of food selectivity is unknown but sensory issues might be one factor. Some children have aversions to specific textures, colors, smells, temperatures, or even specific brands or sources of foods.
Signs of High-Functioning Autism in Children
May appear more mature for their age and have above-average intelligence. A tendency to avoid eye contact. Trouble deviating from a routine or adapting to changes. Trouble making friends and maintaining social relationships or not “fitting in” with peers.