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. 2021 Aug;25(6):1505-1519.
doi: 10.1177/1362361321995631. Epub 2021 Mar 2.

Feeding and eating problems in children and adolescents with autism: A scoping review

Jessica Baraskewich  1   2 , Kristin M von Ranson  1   2 , Adam McCrimmon  1   2 , Carly A McMorris  1   2
Affiliations

Feeding and eating problems in children and adolescents with autism: A scoping review

Jessica Baraskewich et al. Autism. 2021 Aug.

Abstract

Feeding problems, such as picky eating and food avoidance, are common in youth with autism. Other, broader difficulties with feeding and eating (eating disorder symptoms such as restricting food intake or preoccupation with body shape or weight and insistence on specific food presentation) are also common in autistic individuals. Here, we describe the nature and extent of feeding and eating problems in youth with autism. We found no common characteristics (such as severity of autism symptoms) that best describe autistic youth who experience problems with feeding or eating. Almost all studies we reviewed focused on problems with feeding (selective or picky eating), and only a few studies focused on eating disorder symptoms (concern with weight, shape, and/or body image). However, some researchers reported that eating disorder symptoms may occur more often in autistic individuals compared to their peers without autism. Many studies used the terms "feeding" and "eating" problems interchangeably, but understanding the difference between these problems is important for researchers to be consistent, as well as for proper identification and treatment. We suggest future researchers use "eating problems" when behaviors involve preoccupation with food, eating, or body image, and "feeding problems" when this preoccupation is absent. We highlight the importance of understanding whether feeding or eating problems are separate from autism traits, and the role of caregivers and other adults in the child's treatment. Considerations for health-care providers to assist with diagnosis and treatment are also provided.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorders; children and youth; eating disorders; feeding disorders.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of conflicting interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
PRISMA diagram results (from Moher et al., 2009).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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