Eating Problems in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

A variety of eating problems, especially problems with food selectivity, have been reported in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). A few studies have examined children with and without ASDs and compared eating problems found in a group of children. Other research has examined possible etiological factors that lead to eating problems among children with ASDs. This review discusses these areas of research. While the treatment of eating problems among children with ASDs can present a clinical challenge to providers, there is a growing literature detailing effective interventions for the eating problems in this population. Methods of assessment as well as details of interventions that have been found to effectively treat eating problems among children with ASDs are described.