For some people with autism their condition does cause some sort of eating problems. Below we go into some of the most common and what parents can do about them.

It is important to note that the problems will vary from person to person and that some people with autism do not have any eating difficulties whatsoever.

With that said here are some common difficulties people with autism face around food;

Selective Eating: This is when individuals have a very limited range of foods that they will eat. They may refuse to eat certain textures, colors, or smells of food, which can make mealtime challenging for parents and caregivers.

Sensory Sensitivity: People with autism may be hypersensitive or hypo-sensitive to certain textures, smells, or tastes of food. This can make eating uncomfortable or unpleasant for them, and may lead to an avoidance of certain foods or food groups.

Ritualistic Eating: Some individuals with autism may insist on eating foods in a particular order, or only eating certain foods at specific times of day.

Digestive Problems: Some people with autism may have digestive problems that can cause discomfort or pain while eating. This can lead to a reluctance to eat, or avoidance of certain foods.

Parents and caregivers can help their child with autism who is experiencing eating difficulties in the following ways:

Consult with a healthcare professional: If you notice your child is experiencing eating difficulties, it is important to talk to your child’s healthcare provider.

They may refer you to a registered dietitian or a feeding specialist who can help identify the underlying issues and recommend strategies to improve your child’s eating habits.

Create a supportive eating environment: Providing a supportive and positive environment during mealtime can help your child feel more comfortable and less anxious. Try to create a routine around meals, limit distractions, and provide foods that your child enjoys.

Try new foods: Introducing new foods slowly and in a non-threatening way can help your child become more comfortable with different textures, smells, and tastes of food. You could eat together to show your child the new food is both safe and tasty.

Use visual aids: Some children with autism may respond well to visual aids, such as pictures or a visual schedule, to help them understand what to expect during mealtime.

Seek support: Joining a support group or connecting with other parents of children with autism who have experienced eating difficulties can provide valuable support and advice.

Involve your child in the preparation: You could prepare meals with your child so that they feel part of the process. It could be as simple as having them turn the oven on or getting a pan out of a cupboard.

Summary – Does autism cause eating problems?

Autism is different for every individual with the condition. With that said however issues with eating are common across all age groups.

If you are a parent dealing with an autistic child with a very limited diet you could try some of our meal ideas listed here.