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Dietary Diversity in Children with Autism

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Comprehensive Guide to Autism

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Abstract

Feeding problems are frequently noted among children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and there is growing evidence that this population may be at increased risk for nutritional and/or related medical issues due to atypical mealtime behaviors. Much remains unknown, however, regarding the topography, etiology, and possible sequelae associated with feeding problems and ASD. The goal of the present chapter is to clarify the nature of feeding problems and associated dietary diversity in ASD. The chapter begins with a general overview of research regarding feeding difficulties in ASD, followed by a review of possible etiological factors associated with the development and maintenance of atypical patterns of intake. Next, we discuss the immediate and long-term impact of atypical patterns of intake in ASD, focusing on nutritional, medical, and quality of life (QoL) outcomes. With this backdrop in place, the chapter concludes with a discussion regarding the need for increased screening and treatment for feeding problems in ASD, highlighting empirical support for behavioral intervention to expand dietary variety.

Food is the earliest intrusion that is brought to the child from the outside world.

Kanner (1943, p. 244)

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Pediatric Psychology and Feeding Disorders Program, Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, 30329, Atlanta, GA, USA

    William G. Sharp, Rashelle C. Berry & David L. Jaquess

  2. Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emory University School of Medicine, 30329, Atlanta, GA, USA

    Barbara O. McElhanon

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  1. William G. Sharp
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  2. Rashelle C. Berry
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  3. Barbara O. McElhanon
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  4. David L. Jaquess
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Correspondence to William G. Sharp .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Westminster, Faculty of Science & Technology, London, United Kingdom

    Vinood B. Patel

  2. Nutritional Sciences Division and Genomics Centre, King's College London, London, United Kingdom

    Victor R. Preedy

  3. Faculty of Society and Health, Buckinghamshire New University, Middlesex, United Kingdom

    Colin R. Martin

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Sharp, W.G., Berry, R.C., McElhanon, B.O., Jaquess, D.L. (2014). Dietary Diversity in Children with Autism. In: Patel, V., Preedy, V., Martin, C. (eds) Comprehensive Guide to Autism. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-4788-7_127

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-4788-7_127

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