Food selectivity and behavioral problems during meals in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder in a specialized center in southern Brazil

Abstract

Introduction and objective: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by compromised behavior and social communication, as well as repetition of patterns. Food selectivity is a change in eating behavior common in ASD that creates limited variety in individuals' diets. The study aimed to evaluate food selectivity and behavioral problems during meals in children and adolescents with ASD. Materials and Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study, with 91 individuals assisted at an institution in Southern Brazil, aged between two and 18 years. A frequency, selectivity and eating behavior questionnaire, anthropometric measurements and sociodemographic variables were applied. Statistical analysis was performed using the JAMOVI program. Results: In the sample, there was a prevalence of males, white skin color, with an average age of 7.76 years. Around 60% of the sample was overweight, the majority said yes to the presence of food selectivity, the main behavior during meals reported was not liking certain foods and not consuming them and the Selectivity had texture as its main factor. Conclusion: Food selectivity was presented in the sample as high inflexibility and low food repertoire. It is a subject that requires more attention from all health professionals and solutions that adapt the consumption of those affected, such as different preparation methods.