Food Selectivity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Statistical Analysis in Southern Italy.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Psychology
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
• Food selectivity is a common challenge in children with ASD, impacting nutrition and family mealtimes.
• Sensory processing differences are frequently observed in individuals with ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between food selectivity and sensory processing atypicalities in children with ASD.
• To explore the correlation between motor skills, eating behaviors, and food selectivity in pediatric ASD.
• To identify potential areas for therapeutic intervention in feeding difficulties associated with ASD.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 111 children (2-10 years) with and without ASD participated.
• Parents/caregivers completed the Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory.
• Children underwent assessments using the Brief Sensory Profile and Child Oral and Motor Proficiency Scale.

Main Results:

• Children with ASD exhibited significant difficulties with eating and food selectivity.
• Food selectivity was strongly correlated with sensory modulation differences (smell, texture, color, temperature) and taste/smell domains.
• Motor skills and oral-motor proficiency were linked to eating skills and food selectivity.

Conclusions:

• Sensory processing atypicalities are a key factor contributing to food selectivity in pediatric ASD.
• Motor and oral-motor deficits may exacerbate feeding challenges and selectivity in this population.
• Understanding these correlations can inform targeted interventions for improving mealtime behaviors and nutritional intake in children with ASD.