About Contact

Picky Eating in ASD

Practical Tips for Parents

Picky eating is a common challenge for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Understanding the underlying reasons and implementing supportive strategies can help expand your child's diet and reduce mealtime stress.

What is Picky Eating in ASD?

Picky eating in ASD often goes beyond typical childhood fussiness. It can involve severe restrictions in the number or type of foods eaten, strong aversions to certain textures, smells, or appearances, and intense resistance to trying new foods. This is often referred to as Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) when severe.

Why is Picky Eating Common in ASD?

Several factors contribute to selective eating habits in autistic children:

Sensory Sensitivities:

  • •
    Texture: Aversions to slimy, lumpy, crunchy, or soft foods.
  • •
    Smell: Strong reactions to certain food odors.
  • •
    Appearance: Dislike of mixed foods, certain colors, or irregular shapes.
  • •
    Taste: Extreme sensitivity to bitter, sour, or intense flavors.

Anxiety & Predictability:

  • •Fear of new foods (neophobia) due to unpredictability.
  • •Strong preference for routine and sameness in meals.

Motor Skills & Oral Motor Issues:

  • •Difficulties with chewing, swallowing, or manipulating certain foods in the mouth.

Impact of Picky Eating

Beyond mealtime stress, severe picky eating can lead to nutritional deficiencies, limited social opportunities, and increased family tension. Addressing it is important for overall health and well-being.

Tips for Parents: Addressing Picky Eating

Patience and consistency are key. Focus on small, gradual changes and positive experiences with food.

  • •
    Sensory Exploration (Non-Eating): Encourage play with food outside of mealtime to reduce sensory aversions without pressure to eat.
  • •
    Establish Routine & Predictability: Serve meals at consistent times and in consistent locations.
  • •
    Offer Preferred & New Foods: Always include at least one "safe" food your child likes. Introduce new foods alongside familiar ones.
  • •
    Small, Gradual Exposures: Start with tiny amounts of new food. It can take 10-15 exposures for acceptance.
  • •
    Involve Your Child: Let them help with grocery shopping or meal prep to reduce anxiety.
  • •
    Positive Reinforcement: Praise effort and willingness to interact with food, not just eating.

When to Seek Professional Help

If picky eating severely limits your child's diet, impacts their growth, causes significant stress, or you suspect underlying medical issues, it's time to consult specialists.

  • •
    Pediatrician: Rule out medical conditions, monitor growth, and provide referrals.
  • •
    Occupational Therapist (OT): Specializes in sensory processing and oral motor skills related to feeding.
  • •
    Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP): Can address oral motor difficulties and swallowing issues.
  • •
    Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist: Can assess nutritional intake and ensure adequate nutrition.

Ready to Learn More?

For additional resources and support on feeding challenges, consult with professionals or visit reputable autism organizations.

Explore more at ASD infographics.