ABSTRACT

Autism is a complex, behaviorally-defined neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant impairments in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and by restrictive, repetitive, and stereotypic patterns of behavior. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that the current prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in the United States is 1 in 110 children* [1]. Nutritional screening and assessment of children with ASDs is an important clinical consideration for several reasons. First, these children often exhibit nutrition-related medical issues

including gastrointestinal discomfort, bowel inflammation, diarrhea, constipation, and acid reflux [1]. Abnormal sensory processing can affect taste and texture perception leading to food avoidance and restricted food intake in many children with ASD. “Insistence on sameness” and compulsive repetitive behaviors reinforce rigid dietary preferences and lead to a limited food repertoire [2]. Finally, accumulating research indicates that nutrient metabolism and requirements may be altered in some children with ASDs compared to typically developing children [3-5]. Thus, children with ASDs have multiple risk factors that may increase the prevalence of nutrient deficiencies in this population.