Eating Habits and the Autism Spectrum

Nutrition

Many children on the autism spectrum show inflexibility in their eating habits. This can manifest as a strong preference for specific types, shapes, textures, smells, or other characteristics that are important to them. Additionally, since they often experience anxiety that is difficult to express, they may turn to food for comfort. Numerous studies have found a connection between excessive cravings for carbohydrates, low weight, digestive problems, and obesity in relation to autism. Children on the spectrum may experience tantrums and conflicts around food, and they may misinterpret hunger signals. In some cases, they may suffer from malnutrition due to a very limited diet. In situations where additional help seems necessary, it is advisable to consult a dietitian with expertise in autism.

General tips for feeding children with autism:

– Establish meal schedules and try to stick to them. Many children with autism enjoy knowing their menu in advance.

– It is important to avoid turning food into a source of conflict or disputes. Additionally, food should not be used as a reward or positive reinforcement.

– Serve a variety of meals.

– Allow the child to participate in meal preparation to reduce aversion to certain foods. The child can cut vegetables, help in the kitchen, or look for recipes that interest them. It is recommended to make food presentation fun, such as creating faces or animals with fruits and vegetables, or making fun shapes with main courses and side dishes.

– Always try to offer something new, slightly change the presentation of foods, their composition, or the arrangement of dishes. A child on the autism spectrum may “fixate” on a few specific foods, so it is important to be aware of this and encourage the exploration of a variety of different foods. It is recommended to introduce new foods gradually, for example, by placing them on the table and eating them ourselves, offering them when the child is hungry and waiting for a meal, or encouraging them to try when they see their siblings or friends eating them.

– Be aware that some foods may be disliked due to texture, such as foods that are too soft or too hard, and try to modify the preparation to make them more enjoyable.

– If you believe your child seeks food to soothe emotions, talk to them about different types of hunger. You can ask whether they feel “food hunger,” “boredom hunger,” or “hunger from an emotional discomfort.”

– As with all children, it is recommended to never force them to eat, share family meals, avoid eating with distractions like screens, and drink plenty of water.

We hope you enjoy meals and the time shared with your special child.

Sleep

Many children on the autism spectrum have poorer sleep patterns compared to their peers.

Studies have shown that parents of children with autism also experience more fatigue than parents of neurotypical children. Research has found that children on the spectrum produce significantly lower and irregular levels of melatonin—a hormone that regulates sleep quality. This means they do not misbehave intentionally but instead face genuine physiological difficulties in achieving restful sleep. Common sleep problems include difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, and early morning wake-ups.

Because of these sleep challenges, parents may adopt less-than-ideal sleep habits, such as sitting by their child’s bed until they fall asleep or allowing them to sleep in the parents’ bed. Since children with autism often struggle with flexibility, these habits can become deeply ingrained and frustrating. The good news is that, for the same reason, good sleep habits can also be established over time and become routine.

Ensuring that all children—and especially those on the spectrum—get sufficient, high-quality sleep is crucial. Without it, they can become irritable and fatigued during the day. Sleep deprivation affects their social interactions, home functioning, and school performance. Similarly, exhausted parents may feel more impatient and experience intense stress and burnout.

Points to consider for establishing good sleep habits in children on the spectrum:

1. Many of them have sensory processing issues. Therefore, it is advisable to be especially mindful of fabrics, blankets, room temperature, noise, or any other factor that matters to them. Their bedroom should be a relaxing and comfortable space.
2. Bedtime rituals are highly recommended and can begin one or two hours before bed. Children on the spectrum enjoy routines, and maintaining them consistently improves cooperation and family harmony. For example, you can establish a routine of having dinner, taking a bath, brushing teeth, reading a story, and going to bed. For younger children or those with more pronounced disabilities, visual aids like a picture chart showing the order of activities can be used and repeated nightly until it becomes a routine.
3. Children on the spectrum may struggle to express anxiety or fears, so parents often do not realize when they are distressed. If a child suddenly begins sleeping worse, it is essential to investigate whether something is bothering them, if they feel unwell, or if they are having nightmares. Consulting a professional may help better understand and address the issue.
4. In some cases, melatonin supplements may be recommended under the supervision of a sleep specialist. However, it is first important to evaluate whether the problem stems from non-physiological causes, such as habits or emotional distress. Sometimes melatonin helps a child fall asleep but does not prevent waking up during the night. Medical guidance is necessary to determine the best approach and whether adjustments to the treatment are needed.