Behavioral problems affecting child nutrition

Behavioral problems affecting nutrition are a common concern in the treatment of children with autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts communication, social interaction and behavior. These challenges are reflected in feeding and can make it difficult to obtain adequate nutrition.

In this session, we will explore the most common behavioral issues that impact nutrition in children with autism and provide strategies to address them.

Food Selectivity

One of the most common behavioral issues is food selectivity. Children with autism may show an extremely limited preference for certain foods and may reject entire categories of foods, such as vegetables or fruits. This can lead to a poorly varied diet and, in some cases, nutritional deficiencies.

Strategies for Food Selectivity:

• Gradual Introduction: Introduce new foods gradually and repeat exposure. It may take time for a child with autism to accept a new food.

• Offer choices: Giving the child limited options to choose from can give them a sense of control over their eating.

• Model behaviors: Adults can model the behavior of eating and enjoying a variety of foods.

Food Rituals and Routines

Children with autism are often comfortable with routine and may insist on certain food routines, such as using the same plates and utensils at every meal. Changes in these routines may result in anxiety and resistance to eating.

Strategies for Feeding Routines:

• Maintain Consistency: Try to maintain consistency in feeding routines whenever possible to give the child a sense of security.

• Introduce changes gradually: If changes are necessary, do so gradually so that the child becomes accustomed to them.

Sensory Sensitivities

Sensory sensitivities are common in autism and can affect the feeding experience. Children with autism may be hypersensitive or hyposensitive to oral sensations, which influences their willingness to try new foods.

Strategies for Sensory Sensitivities

• Sensory Integration Therapy: Sensory integration therapy can help children better manage sensory sensitivities related to eating.

• Gradual Exposure: Exposing the child to new textures and tastes gradually can help them become more comfortable with eating.

Ritualized Behaviors

Some children with autism may have ritualized behaviors related to eating, such as needing to touch or handle certain foods before eating. These behaviors may delay or hinder the eating process. Strategies for Ritualized Behaviors:

• Allowing Certain Behaviors:As long as they are not detrimental to health, allowing the child to perform certain ritualized behaviors can help the child become more comfortable with eating.

• Provide alternatives: Offer safe and appropriate alternatives to meet these ritual needs.

Stress and Food Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can influence feeding in children with autism. Changes in routine, noisy environment, or pressure to eat can increase anxiety around eating. Strategies for Stress and Feeding Anxiety:

• Create a Calm Environment: Establishing a calm, distraction-free environment for mealtimes can reduce stres