Food habit for autism baby

This study documents the presence and variety of eating patterns and problems seen in children with autism. Although the study is limited by lack of developmentally normal controls, review of the data reveals some interesting observations compared to typical development. With regard to early eating patterns, the rate of breast feeding appears somewhat high although rates vary considerably based on the population studied (Lawrence, 1985). The reported incidence of colic (24%) also seems somewhat inflated, given the fact that several pediatric texts quote a usual rate of 10% (Avery & First, 1994; Taubman, 1997). However,
other texts note rates of up to 30% (Bromberg, 1997; Rudolph, Hoffman & Rudolph, 1996).

The pattern of food introduction generally follows that typically recommended by pediatricians and nutritionists, although meats were presented somewhat earlier than expected. The information regarding feeding from birth to a year provides interesting insights in that infant
temperament and early feeding patterns seemed to be associated with current eating problems. Nondemanding infants appeared to have more problems with eating nonedibles and taking medication. Initial sucking difficulties were also associated with later problems with eating nonedibles.

It could be hypothesized that these problems might be related to insufficient oral stimulation as infants. Children who were not fed on demand as infants were less likely to have a good appetite for most foods. Interestingly,those who were breastfed at a year were less likely to insist on rituals. The association of prolongedbreastfeeding with decreased compulsivity in children is not readily explained.

With regard to health and nutritional concerns, the incidence of reported medical conditions does not appear excessive. While it is estimated that gastroesophageal reflux is problematic for perhaps 20% of children, it is
noted in various pediatric texts that reflux is almost invariably present in infants less than a year of age (Avery & First, 1994; Belknap & McEvoy, 1994; Rudolph et al., 1996). The incidence of asthma appears in
line with that estimated for the general population (5% to 15%) (Pearlman, Greos, & Vitanza, 1997).

Highly varying epidemiologic figures are available concerning food allergies (Behrman & Vaughn, 1987; Katz,
1997).It is interesting that while two thirds of parents reported picky eating habits, nearly half reported that their
child had a fairly well-balanced diet and an even higher percentage reported adequate nutritional intake. EBSCOhost Page 4 of 11
http://weblinks2.epnet.com/DeliveryPrintSave.asp?tb=1&_ua=bo+B_+shn+1+db+aphjnh+... 1/28/2005 . However, the prevalence of picky eating is confirmed by the number of parents who report that their child has a good appetite only when eating foods that are liked. It is not surprising that texture was believed to have the greatest influence on food selection, given issues of oral tactile sensitivity in many children with autism.

Appearance, taste, and smell were other deciding factors. It seems reasonable that children who were not picky eaters were viewed as having better nutrition and better appetites. They were also more likely to have easy-going temperaments. Nearly all parents described a regular mealtime, perhaps reflecting an effort to maintain structure and consistency in eating patterns. In considering the social aspects of eating, over a third of the respondents felt that situations and people
influenced the eating patterns of their children. The majority of families had some meals outside of the home, with the most frequently patronized settings being fast food and drive-through restaurants. This pattern would appear typical for most American families with children. However, problems arise for the families of
children with autism when the child lacks the skills or presents with behaviors that make inclusion in certain social settings awkward.


When eating/oral problems are studied, the difficulties for families of children with autism become more obvious. The problems reported most often were unwillingness to try new foods, mouthing objects, and rituals surrounding eating. Other strongly documented problem behaviors were licking objects, smelling and
throwing food, and eating nonedibles. One may hypothesize a variety of reasons for the problems described. For instance, food refusal may be based on issues related to sensory difficulties and insistence on sameness. The child may also lack the language to express refusal or negotiate verbally.

Problems with
transition may impact on aspects of mealtime; too much stimuli or a prolonged period of sitting may cause a child to reject food. These are problems that worry parents and cause social disruption. Feeding an infant and child is often viewed as a primary responsibility of parents. When a child responds with difficult
behaviors or refusals, the parent must decide on a course of action. Assisting parents with concerns about eating is important in helping the family avoid tension and difficult behaviors.

While child developmentexperts generally advocate that parents accept their young child's selected eating patterns without forcing the issue, this may not always be the route to take with children with autism. Systematic introduction of new
foods, facilitation of one-partner social interactions during meals, establishing a routine, and minimizing stimuli may be more appropriate approaches for children with autism. Most children with autism, given patience and intervention, are eventually able to establish socially appropriate behaviors around eating.


The current study is limited in its conclusions by lack of developmentally normal controls with whom to compare results. It is also possible that the families who returned the survey were those with specific concerns about eating habits in their children and constitute a skewed population. No attempt was made to delineate racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic differences, nor were issues of family structure and dynamics addressed. Further studies are needed to document the specific nature of eating differences in children with autism as compared to typical children.


However, this study serves to provide preliminary data regarding the
eating habits and problems of children with autism. It raises issues regarding the influence of infant temperament and early feeding patterns on later eating patterns of children with autism. Additional research would aid in the development of strategies to facilitate appropriate eating habits and promote social aspects of mealtimes in this population.