Food Variety as a Predictor of Nutritional Status Among Children with Autism

Abstract

The frequency of selective eating and nutritional deficiency was studied among 22 children with autism and an age matched typically developing control group. Children with autism ate fewer foods on average than typically developing children. (33.5 vs. 54.5 foods, P < .001) As compared to typical controls, children with autism had a higher average intake of magnesium, and lower average intake of protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. Selective eaters were significantly more likely than typical controls to be at risk for at least one serious nutrient deficiency (P < .001).

Autism spectrum disorders and intestinal microbiota

“…32,33 Dietary components are recognized as one of the major external modulators of the human GI microbiota, 34,35 and the amount and type of substrate (non-digested dietary components) together with the composition of the gut microbiota affect the total metabolomic profile (Fig. 2).…”

Feasibility Exploration of Electrodermal Response to Food in Children with ASD Compared to Typically Developing Children

“…For example, these children may vomit and/or gag during mealtime and hit, cry, scream, and/or throw food in an effort to escape the feeding situation. The impact of food selectivity can include nutritional deficits for the child (Zimmer et al, 2012) and decreased mealtime satisfaction for the family (Rogers, Magill-Evans, & Rempel, 2012). Despite the potential nutritional and quality of life consequences of food selectivity in the ASD population, this condition is only beginning to be addressed in the literature .…”

The Teaspoon Method; A Simple Training Program for Feeding Disorders in High Functioning Autistic Children

“…These children usually develop nutrient deficiencies with consequences for their future health [9] [10]. Vitamin D deficiency is usually present, although vitamin B12, magnesium and iron are other elements that can become deficient [11] [12]. The second consequence is the impact on the functioning of the family.…”