Healthy Eating and Autism NSCI 5373 Staci Smith

Cause Unclear Possible neurobiological basis Possible causes –Structural abnormalities of the brain –Viruses (rubella) –Genetic disorders –Chromosomal abnormalities –Metabolic disorders (PKU) –Specific seizure disorder (infantile spasms) –Reaction to vaccine –Reaction to antibiotics

Diagnosis Characterized by disorders in language, cognitive skills, social development Usually diagnosed in 2 nd or 3 rd year –Early development may be normal Must meet at least 8 of the 16 diagnostic criteria

Common Food habits Need for sameness and ritual Specific eating behaviors Limited and rigid food preferences

Nutrient Intakes Nutrient intakes were satisfactory compared to RDA Autistic children –92% + 6% for energy –92% + 10% for Ca

Possible Problems Food allergies may be overlooked because of lack of communication Anorexia nervosa may be a problem for kids with hysterical, obsessional, or schizoid characteristics Obesity may be a problem in adolescence due to medication or the use of food reinforcers

Treatments Megavitamin Therapy Theory is that because of genetic predisposition to a disease the person needs larger doses of nutrients to prevent disease state. Has not been clearly proven.

Treatments Magnesium supplementation Folate supplementation Calcium supplementation Feingold diet (no additive diet) Gluten / Casein free diet None are recommended at this time.

Behavioral Management Food often used as a reinforcer (may be high in sugar) Most management techniques involve parents constant involvement with child

Feeding difficulties High incidence of food cravings and pica Food refusal or obsession Speed of eating –Continually eating Mealtime behaviors –Messiness Issues of sameness and rituals –Eat at same place

Introducing New Foods –May only try new foods if they see others eating it –Become experts at spotting hidden food –Play factor

Implications for Practice Be aware of the difficulties parents face at home. –Continuous feeding –Food refusal –Food obsession –Stress from behavior management Do not automatically assume child is deficient –Talk to parents about child’s eating habits –Create a nutrition plan specific to child’s needs