Ask a Dietician

April is Autism Awareness Month

Autism Spectrum Disorder consists of a range of developmental challenges that include social communication, behavioral struggles, and an increased likelihood of digestive issues. Feeding difficulties are also common in this population. A growing body of research shows the significant impact and benefit of good nutrition for those on the spectrum.

Due to the complexity of the condition, individuals with ASD greatly benefit from a team of professionals that include specialized physicians, dietitians, feeding therapists, behavioral therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists. Each specialty contributes a piece of expertise that provides tremendous support in an individual’s ability to thrive well in society.

From a nutritional standpoint, one of the common hurdles faced by those on the spectrum is picky eating. A valuable starting point in dealing with this would be to journal all that is eaten within each day and any factors that help or hinder the eating experience. Gastrointestinal disturbances should also be documented so that the doctor and dietitian can identify a medical and/or food culprit.

All too often, caregivers express that it is not helpful to pressure one to eat, but instead that it increases anxiety and anger during mealtimes. Ensuring comfort and safety at meals rather than coercion and force helps with the discovery of other foods, be it at an individual’s own pace. In turn, this may help to ease gastrointestinal discomfort by removing stress around eating.

Substantial meal and snack times should be implemented. Those on the spectrum tend to prefer routine rather than sporadic. Setting consistent schedules decreases grazing and improves sensitivity to hunger and readiness for mealtimes as they come, helping one become more accepting of foods outside of their comfort zone.

Until the diet becomes more balanced, caregivers should consult with their physician to test nutrient deficiencies and supplement appropriately. This step is vital because not only do nutrient deficiencies stunt proper growth and development, they can contribute to behavioral disturbances. For example, brain function and development rely on omega-3 fats, calcium, iron, and some B vitamins. Inadequacies of iron can cause poor work and school performance due to decreased attention span, learning, and memory. Many B vitamins play an essential role in mood and mental function, so deficiencies may result in depression, confusion, and irritability.

Though food journaling, easing pressures to eat, and setting mealtime structure sound quite basic, they are still challenging to implement. However, they set the foundation so that further progress and interventions can be made to reach a balanced and therapeutic diet, helping individuals on the spectrum reach their full potential.