Changes in Food Selectivity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Linda G Bandini, Carol Curtin, Sarah Phillips, Sarah E Anderson, Melissa Maslin, Aviva Must, Linda G Bandini, Carol Curtin, Sarah Phillips, Sarah E Anderson, Melissa Maslin, Aviva Must
Abstract
Food selectivity is a common problem in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and has an adverse impact on nutrient adequacy and family mealtimes. Despite recent research in this area, few studies have addressed whether food selectivity present in children with ASD persists into adolescence. In this study, we assessed food selectivity in 18 children with ASD at two time points (mean age = 6.8 and 13.2 years), and examined changes in food selectivity. While food refusal improved overall, we did not observe an increase in food repertoire (number of unique foods eaten). These findings support the need for interventions early in childhood to increase variety and promote healthy eating among children with ASD.
Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Childhood; Food refusal; Food selectivity; Nutrition.
Conflict of interest statement
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.
Source: PubMed