Autistic children may be picky eaters or have a limited diet for a variety of reasons.

One possibility is that they may have difficulty with textures, flavors, smells and even colours of certain foods, leading to a preference for a limited set of foods.

Additionally, some children with autism may have sensory processing difficulties, which can make eating certain foods uncomfortable or even painful.

For example, a child with autism might find the smell of a food overwhelming and refuse to eat it, or might be sensitive to the texture of certain foods and avoid them.

Another possible reason for a limited diet in children with autism is that they may be resistant to trying new foods. This can be due to a lack of interest in food, a fear of trying new things, or a desire for routine and consistency.

Communication a factor

Some children with autism may also have difficulty communicating their likes and dislikes when it comes to food, making it difficult for caregivers to understand their preferences.

Some children with autism may also have gastrointestinal (GI) issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, or reflux. These problems can make eating uncomfortable, and children may avoid certain foods that they associate with these symptoms.

A limited diet can have health consequences, such as malnutrition, and lack of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

This is why it is important for parents and caregivers to work with a dietitian or other healthcare professional to supplement the child’s diet where appropriate.

It’s also worth noting that some of the above difficulties are not exclusive to autism, many children have struggles with textures, flavors, and smells of certain foods, and in general children tend to be picky eaters at some point.

Summing up

In conclusion, children with autism may have a limited diet for various reasons, including sensory processing difficulties, a lack of interest in food, and gastrointestinal problems.

It is important for parents and caregivers to work with healthcare professionals to address these issues and ensure that the child receives a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

It may be worth trying books or guides on the subject such as this found on the BBC’s site.