Autism is a developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and socialize effectively. Autism can also impact a child’s eating habits, leading to unusual behaviors and preferences when it comes to food.

Here are some of the most common unusual eating habits in children with autism.

Picky Eating

Children with autism may be extremely picky eaters, limiting their diets to only a few specific foods. This can be due to the child’s sensitivity to textures, smells, and tastes, as well as a desire for routine and predictability.

Picky eating can lead to nutritional deficiencies, which can have a negative impact on overall health and development.

Food Aversions

Children with autism may have strong food aversions, leading them to refuse to eat certain foods. This can be due to sensory issues, such as foods with a strong smell or an unusual texture.

Food aversions can make mealtime stressful for both the child and their parents, and can lead to limited food choices and nutritional deficiencies.

Food Obsessions

Some children with autism may develop an obsession with certain foods, often eating the same food every day for weeks or months at a time. This can be due to a desire for routine and predictability, as well as a need for sensory stimulation.

Food obsessions can make it difficult for a child to try new foods and can lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Binge Eating

While many children with autism have restricted diets, some may engage in binge eating, consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time.

Binge eating can be triggered by stress or anxiety, and can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Children with autism may have difficulty with social eating situations, such as meals with extended family or friends. This can be due to anxiety, social communication challenges, or sensory issues.

Difficulty with social eating can make it difficult for a child to enjoy meals outside of the home and can impact their social relationships.

Overcoming Unusual Eating Habits

While unusual eating habits can be challenging, there are strategies parents can use to help their child overcome them. These include:.

Identifying and addressing underlying sensory issues
Introducing new foods gradually and in a non-threatening way
Offering a variety of healthy foods to increase the child’s exposure to different tastes and textures
Establishing a routine and structure around mealtime
Making mealtime a positive and enjoyable experience
Working with a nutritionist or feeding therapist to develop a plan to address the child’s specific needs and challenges

Conclusion

Unusual eating habits are common in children with autism, but with patience and persistence, parents can help their child develop a healthy relationship with food.

By addressing underlying sensory issues and offering a variety of healthy foods, parents can help their child overcome picky eating, food aversions, and food obsessions, and establish a positive and enjoyable mealtime routine.