Common Eating Disorders Associated with Autism
- toddlerswithtism
- Nov 30, 2023
- 4 min read
⚡️Eating Disorders with Autism; PICA & AFRID⚡️
⚡️Pica is an eating disorder in which a person eats things, not usually considered food. Young kids often put non-food items (like grass or toys) in their mouths because they're curious about the world around them. When this behavior is continued after the age of 2 years old, it may be considered pica.
⚡️The exact cause of pica is unknown; however, it is found to exist in people in the following situations: - developmental problems - autism - intellectual disabilities - mental health problems (obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or schizophrenia) - malnutrition, unsafe living conditions - low levels of nutrients like iron, zinc, or calcium
⚡️People with autism often engage in pica activities for sensory input. They take pleasure in feeling the objects in their mouths. Additionally, they may not understand the difference between food and non-food items. Some will just chew or play with items, other will actually swallow or eat them.
⚡️People with pica often eat or mouth non-food items like: - dirt - clay - rocks - paper - crayons - soap - thread - hair - plastic - rubber - paint chips - chalk - feces (poop) - toys
⚡️If you believe your child has pica please discuss it with a pediatrician. The first-line treatment for pica involves testing for mineral or nutrient deficiencies and correcting those. If the behaviors aren’t caused by malnutrition or don’t stop after nutritional treatment, a variety of behavioral interventions are available. A behavior specialist can help you and your child find effective ways to reduce pica. These methods can include skill building, redirection, and alternative behaviors.
⚡️A few tips to help: - child proofing non-food items where possible - using high shelves for objects they are likely to put in their mouths - redirecting attention away from the desired object - rewarding them for discarding or setting down the non-food item - ensure teachers and other caregivers are aware - work with your child to practice identifying things that are safe and edible versus dangerous and not for eating - keep poison control and emergency numbers on hand
ℹ️ Continue your own research:
⚡️ARFID - Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder is an eating disorder. Children with ARFID are EXTREMELY picky eaters and have little interest in eating food. They eat a very limited variety of preferred foods.
⚡️Although this does sound like a lot of children with autism, AFRID is a severe case of picky eating. Children who suffer from AFRID are often underweight and not growing properly due to a lack of nutrition.
⚡️Kids with the disorder may: - not get enough vitamins, minerals, and protein - need tube feeding and nutrition supplements - grow poorly - have delayed puberty - become overweight or obese
⚡️The lack of nutrition associated with ARFID can cause: - dizziness and fainting due to low blood pressure - a slow pulse - dehydration - weakened bones (osteoporosis) and muscles - stopped menstrual periods (amenorrhea)
⚡️The exact cause of ARFID is not known. Many experts believe that a combination of psychological, genetic, and triggering events (such as choking) can lead to the condition. Some kids with ARFID have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), SPD (sensory processing disorder), or other medical conditions that can lead to feeding problems.
⚡️Researchers know much less about what puts someone at risk of developing ARFID, but here’s what they do know: - People with autism spectrum conditions are much more likely to develop ARFID, as are those with ADHD and intellectual disabilities. - Children who don’t outgrow normal picky eating or in whom picky eating is severe appear to be more likely to develop ARFID. - Many children with ARFID also have a co-occurring anxiety disorder.
⚡️Treatment & Diagnosis: If you are concerned your child may have an eating disorder, call your doctor for advice. ARFID is best treated by a team that includes a doctor, dietitian, and therapist who specializes in eating disorders. Treatment may include nutrition counseling, medical care, and feeding therapy. If choking is a concern, a speech-language pathologist can do a swallowing and feeding evaluation. Doctors and mental health professionals will look for: - significant weight loss - serious nutritional deficiencies - poor appetite, lack of interest in food, or food avoidance
⚡️The main goals of treatment are to: - Achieve and maintain a healthy weight and healthy eating patterns. - Increase the variety of foods eaten. - Learn ways to eat without fear of pain or choking. - Doctors might prescribe medicines to increase appetite or treat anxiety. If anxiety is a concern, the therapist will teach children and families ways to handle worries around food.
⚡️Tips for dealing with AFRID: - Be a role model. Serve and eat a variety of foods. - Schedule regular meals and snacks. - Have regular family meals. - Keep the mood at the table pleasant and avoid struggles during mealtimes. - Encourage your child to try new foods, but do not force them to eat. - Reward positive eating behaviors. - Find ways to manage anxiety and stress around food. Taking a couple of deep breaths can help your child relax. Yoga, meditation, music, art, dance, writing, or talking to a friend can help manage stress.
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