Sensory factors involved in feeding difficulties in autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Introduction: Approximately 90% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have sensory processing alterations, showing difficulty registering, modulating, interpreting, and/or responding to sensory information from the environment. This scenario may affect eating patterns in these patients, leading to feeding difficulties, such as food selectivity. Objectives: To identify and compare sensory processing and possible changes in eating behavior in ASD patients with feeding difficulties (CDA) and without feeding difficulties (SDA). Method: A case-control study with 32 patients with ASD (ages 4 to 11 years), conducted in two stages: (1) review of medical records and (2) application of questionnaires for the clinical assessment of feeding difficulties (BREB-ASD) and sensory factors (Sensory Profile 2). Results: Significant differences were observed in the general (p = 0.050), visual (p = 0.059), and oral (p = 0.000) sensitivity domains. Food choices were influenced by texture and consistency, with 50% preferring dry, crunchy foods “almost always” and 21.4% “frequently”. In addition, 57.1% of the CDA group maintained the same menu at each meal, and 28.6% required that foods be served in the same way. Conclusion: Sensory factors may be closely related to feeding difficulties, and early identification of clinical manifestations contributes not only to a specific and appropriate intervention but may also ensure adequate development with respect to the nutritional status of this group. Specific assessments, through validated questionnaires, combined with clinical observation, are indicated for a more comprehensive identification of the clinical manifestations presented.