Impact of Dietary Habits on Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition characterized by difficulty in social interaction, in addition to affecting the development of language and communication. Food selectivity was common problem among children with ASD and this would lead to macro- and micronutrient deficiencies. This study was done to identify the dietary habits and assess the effects of consumed food on autistic behavior. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in National Center of Autism in Children Welfare Teaching Hospital in Baghdad for three months. Fifty children aged between 2 and 10 years were collected randomly by simple random method. Anthropometric measurements were recorded and general questionnaire, Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS 2) forms were filled in by dietitian and the psychologist. Results: The rates of being overweight and obese were 22% and 8%, respectively. Food selectivity was observed in 64% of the children, there was statistical association between autistic behavior and low consumption of certain foods (cheese, red meat, white meat and egg), and high oily seeds consumption (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that children with ASD had different dietary habits, food selectivity and their effect on autistic behavior.