Feeding and eating problems in children and adolescents with autism: A scoping review

Abstract

Feeding problems, such as picky eating and food avoidance, are common in youth with autism. Other feeding and eating problems (e.g. disordered eating, fear of trying new foods, and insistence on specific food presentation) are also common in this population. This scoping review describes the nature and extent of feeding and eating problems in autistic youth and reports characteristics of autistic youth who experience such issues. Thirty-four studies were included in the current review, with almost all studies (91%) investigating feeding problems. Only 9% of studies examined concern with weight, shape, and/or body image, but several authors noted that disordered eating attitudes and behaviors may occur more frequently in those with autism than their peers without autism. No common individual characteristics (e.g. cognitive functioning and autism symptom severity) were identified for youth who experience feeding or eating problems. Although differentiating “feeding” from “eating” problems is critical for accurate identification and treatment of these issues, the existing literature has failed to do so. We propose that in future research “eating problems” be used when behaviors involve preoccupation with food, eating, or body image, and “feeding problems” be used when such preoccupation is absent. Lay abstract Feeding problems, such as picky eating and food avoidance, are common in youth with autism. Other, broader difficulties with feeding and eating (eating disorder symptoms such as restricting food intake or preoccupation with body shape or weight and insistence on specific food presentation) are also common in autistic individuals. Here, we describe the nature and extent of feeding and eating problems in youth with autism. We found no common characteristics (such as severity of autism symptoms) that best describe autistic youth who experience problems with feeding or eating. Almost all studies we reviewed focused on problems with feeding (selective or picky eating), and only a few studies focused on eating disorder symptoms (concern with weight, shape, and/or body image). However, some researchers reported that eating disorder symptoms may occur more often in autistic individuals compared to their peers without autism. Many studies used the terms “feeding” and “eating” problems interchangeably, but understanding the difference between these problems is important for researchers to be consistent, as well as for proper identification and treatment. We suggest future researchers use “eating problems” when behaviors involve preoccupation with food, eating, or body image, and “feeding problems” when this preoccupation is absent. We highlight the importance of understanding whether feeding or eating problems are separate from autism traits, and the role of caregivers and other adults in the child’s treatment. Considerations for health-care providers to assist with diagnosis and treatment are also provided.

A comparison of the eating disorder service experiences of autistic and non‐autistic women in the UK

“…The current findings add to the emerging evidence that autistic individuals tend to develop ED symptoms at a younger age. Previous research consistently reports atypical eating behaviours and food selectivity in autistic children (Baraskewich et al., 2021; Cermak et al., 2010; Kral et al., 2013). The current findings support qualitative interviews with autistic women with a RED who reported eating difficulties in childhood that they believe contributed to the development of an ED (Brede et al., 2020).…”

Sensory processing and eating behaviours in autism: A systematic review

“…It is now generally accepted that sensory differences are integral in our understanding of autism, not just as core symptoms but also in their influence on different behavioural and clinical features (Glod et al, 2015;Robertson & Baron-Cohen, 2017). While atypical eating behaviours are reported to be common in neurotypical childhood (Dovey et al, 2008;Dubois et al, 2008;Micali et al, 2011), such behaviours appear to be a more frequent and persistent issue in autism (Bandini et al, 2017;Baraskewich et al, 2021;Sharp et al, 2013;Twachtman-Reilly et al, 2008). Clinicians and caregivers frequently report a broad range of such behaviours in autistic individuals, such as food selectivity, disruptive mealtime behaviours and food neophobia, here defined as a fear of trying new foods (Edmond et al, 2010;Margari et al, 2020;Wallace et al, 2018), aversions have also been cited based on sensory characteristics or features of foods, such as texture, colour or specific brands (Ahearn et al, 2001;Schrek et al, 2004;Schrek & Williams, 2006).…”

Food Selectivity and Its Implications Associated with Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

“…Food rejection is extremely common in children with ASD, although its true prevalence is not reported [22,30]. Both conditions (ASD and food neophobia) have different characteristics and etiologies, for which they should be classified as different, not related, disorders.…”