A child with autism could have multiple reasons for not eating, including picky eating, food refusal, and restrictive eating patterns.
In some cases, children with autism may not want to eat at all, which can be concerning for parents and caregivers.
Why eating and autism are linked
There are several reasons why a child with autism may not want to eat, including sensory issues, anxiety, gastrointestinal problems, and behavioral issues.
One common issue for children with autism is sensory processing difficulties.
Sensory processing refers to the way the brain receives and interprets sensory information from the environment.
Children with autism can have sensory processing differences that make certain textures, smells, or tastes overwhelming or aversive.
For example, a child with autism may refuse to eat certain foods because of the way they feel in their mouth, such as foods that are mushy or slimy.
It is not uncommon for children with autism to only eat foods that are a certain texture or colour.
Eating anxiety
Another reason why a child with autism may not want to eat is anxiety.
Children with autism can experience high levels of anxiety, which can impact their appetite.
Anxiety can be triggered by a range of factors, such as changes in routine or unfamiliar environments.
For some children, the act of eating itself can be anxiety-provoking.
They may have fears or phobias related to choking or vomiting, or they may struggle with the social aspects of eating, such as sitting at a table with others.
Or it may be that they remember previous negative experiences from eating textures they find repulsive.
Stomach problems are also common in children with autism, and these can impact their appetite and food preferences.
Studies have shown that children with autism are more likely to experience digestive issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
These problems can cause pain or discomfort, making it difficult for the child to eat.
In some cases, children may refuse to eat certain foods because they associate them with pain or discomfort.
Behavioural factors
Finally, behavioral issues can also impact a child’s eating habits.
Children with autism can exhibit challenging behaviors related to food, such as food refusal, food hoarding, or food fixation.
These behaviors can be related to the child’s sensory processing difficulties or anxiety, or they may be a way for the child to exert control over their environment.
Children with autism may also struggle with transitions, such as moving from one activity to another, and this can impact their willingness to sit down and eat a meal.
Summary – Child with autism not eating
Mealtimes can be a challenge for a number of parents in our position.
There are several reasons why a child with autism may not want to eat.
They include sensory issues and behavioral issues.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to work with their child’s healthcare team to identify the underlying cause of their eating difficulties and develop a plan to address them.
This may involve working with a speech therapist or occupational therapist to address sensory issues, or consulting with a gastroenterologist to address digestive problems.
With the right support, children with autism can develop healthy eating habits and enjoy a varied and balanced diet.
