The Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Children with Autism

Atypical eating behaviors are 15 times more common in children with autism than in their neurotypical peers. Nearly three-quarters of children with autism experience eating disorders or feeding issues such as food avoidance, food refusal, or picky eating due to a variety of reasons. Often, these issues are sensory in nature or involve hyperfixation on a preferred food. Other times, there are gastrointestinal problems that lead to feeding issues.

Some of these issues may not be strictly classified as eating disorders; regardless, there is a clear overlap between autism and eating disorders in general. This link may be related to the increased rates of anxiety and depression in children with autism.

What are Eating Disorders?

The National Institute of Mental Health defines eating disorders as “illnesses that are associated with severe disturbances in people’s eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions.” Some of the most well-known eating disorders are anorexia and bulimia, both of which involve a distorted body image and a compulsive desire for weight-loss. Binge-eating is another common eating disorder that stems from an unhealthy relationship with food.

Another eating disorder common to children with autism is pica, which is the eating of nonfood items like pebbles, paper, cloth, or soap. Pica is sometimes a form of sensory input craved by the child and in other cases may be triggered by a need to fill a certain nutrient deficiency.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is another eating disorder that goes beyond run of the mill picky eating and is especially common in the autism population. This may become so serious that it slows a child’s physical development. 

How are Eating Disorders Treated in Children with Autism?

Eating disorders are a serious concern and require a comprehensive treatment plan overseen by a mental health professional as well as a medical professional. Group therapy is often used as a treatment for eating disorders. However, this approach is not always welcomed by children with autism who likely also struggle with social and communication skills.

Individual therapy is also used, particularly behavioral interventions that aim to…

• develop a healthier relationship with food and eating
• foster a better self-image
• cope with anxiety and depression
• teach families how to be support their child with autism

Positive Reinforcement offers in home ABA therapy services for Somerset Kentucky, North Virginia, West Virginia and surrounding areas.