Autism spectrumChildren's healthDigestive health

Autism and food aversion: how to help your picky eater

Our tips can help you cope with your picky eater and avoid mealtime meltdowns.


LearnBrain & nervous systemAutism and food aversion: how to help your picky eater
1. Become an expert on your child.
2. Stick to a schedule.
3. Make trying new foods fun.
4. Test the waters -- slowly.
5. Be flexible. and patient.
6. Celebrate small victories.

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Kids are notoriously picky eaters. But for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a finicky appetite can mean something more serious. “[Children with autism] that have food aversions can have inadequate nutrition,” says autism expert and author Chantal Sicile-Kira. “Researchers have found, in particular, an overall low intake of calcium and protein.” Such nutritional deficiencies can severely hinder physical, mental and social development.

If your child has autism and is showing signs of food aversions, these tips can help make mealtime easier.

Written by Michael Gollust.
Medically reviewed by Ann Wendling, MD, MPH.April, 2025
Updated onAugust, 2026
Written by Michael Gollust.
Medically reviewed by Ann Wendling, MD, MPH.April, 2025
Updated onAugust, 2026
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