Family Mealtime environment, sensory sensitivities and eating behaviour in children with autism spectrum disorder: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) generally exhibit atypical eating behaviours connected to processing differences, which can make family meal time extremely stressful. This review is a combination of evidence on how the family mealtime environment, sensory sensitivities and caregiver struggle,communicate to shape eating behaviour in children with ASD. Studies show that multisensory demands at mealtime as taste,smell,texture,visual,auditory cues contribute to food selectivity, refusal of food and ritualistic pattern of eating. These mealtime challenges enhance stress for caregivers or both the parents and can spoil family routine, bonding and shared meals.Guidance from pediatrician, psychologist and occupational therapist can help increase structured predictable and planned routine. Sensory- friendly adaptation and positive modeling to support sustainable dietary expansion and better mealtime experience.However most available evidence is cross sectional with limited high quality intervention trials that examined family centered.sensory informed strategies more diligent, culturally sensitive research is needed to guide interdisciplinary nutrition and mental health practice especially in low- and middle-income settings.