Eating Disorders In Autistic Children
Eating disorders in autistic children are common. They can have many causes, although they are generally side effects of the changes characteristic of this disease. They often have different degrees of intensity.
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a group of disorders of the central nervous system that affect brain function. The onset of the disease usually occurs during childhood, and problems with neural function translate into difficulties in social interaction and communication skills.
The main eating disorders in children with autism
Autistic children also tend to have preferences for a particular type of training or presentation. In general, and without this being the norm, autistic children tend to favor red, yellow or orange food and usually reject granular, viscous and astringent textures.
Due to insufficient food intake and the limited choices mentioned above, the diets of autistic children become insufficient in terms of energy and nutrients.
In addition, there may be difficulties in establishing the roles of power and accepting the limits imposed. Children are the ones who take full control of their food as they choose what to eat, what not to eat and in what quantities.
Negative experiences could be:
- Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
- Discomfort caused by anger or struggle to eat
This is why it is important to know the side effects of treatments and to talk to professionals who work with children with autism.
- Abdominal pain
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- flatulence
You need to pay attention to the frequency and intensity of your symptoms. You should evaluate the existence of an allergy and food intolerance, as they are very common during childhood.
This is an additional problem for the proper development and growth of the child. A meta-analysis of scientific studies found that the diets of children with autism contained less protein and calcium than those of “normal” children.
Therefore, you need to address any eating problems that your child may have in order to find a suitable solution for him. In addition, experts emphasize the need to follow a diet tailored to each child (depending on their preferences) and maintain control over nutritional status.
Only in this way can eating habits be improved and possible problems related to a poor diet prevented.
Eating disorders in children with autism require increased attention
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