Eating and nutrition - Gems4health

Eating and nutrition for children with ADHD or autism

Meal and snack times can be a challenge for families with children who have ADHD or autism. Let’s explore some common issues and some helpful strategies to make eating a more positive experience for everyone.

Before we look any further, it is important to recognise not all eating issues come from a child’s autism or ADHD. Therefore it is important to rule out medical reasons for any issues or concerns you may be facing around eating.

If the child is experiencing: excessive weight loss or gain, constipation, diet related tooth decay, medication refusal, eating non-edible items, signs of malnutrition or dehydration or has a reduction in safe foods, then we must stress you gain medical support immediately.

Understanding food challenges

Children with ADHD or autism often experience the world differently, and this includes how they interact with food. Here’s what you might notice:

Sensitivity to certain textures, tastes, smells, or even the look of foods

Strong preferences for specific foods or brands

Difficulty trying new foods

Insistence on particular mealtime routines

Limited food choices, sometimes eating only a handful of “safe” foods

These behaviours aren’t just “picky eating”, they don’t have control over their reactions and needs around eating and food.

Some approaches that may help a child with challenges around food.

Keep Safe Foods Available- It is vital to not remove access to a child’s safe food items. Safe foods options provide security and ensure a child eats something over nothing. If safe foods are available to a child they may feel more comfortable trying new or non-safe foods. A child may be open to trying different versions of their safe food.

Introduce New Foods Slowly- Expose your child to new foods without pressure. This could be other family members eating them or having a small amount on a “try plate” at meal times. Celebrate small steps like touching or smelling the food. Success doesn’t always look like eating or enjoying the new food.

Make Small Changes- Try making small changes to food your child already like. This could be trying a new brand of the same item, changing the shape of a safe food or a similar items.

Involve Your Child- Plan meals and snacks together, offer for your child to write a list and come shopping with you. They may want to help prepare food but not eat it. You should encourage all levels of involvement.

Nutrition tips

If you are concerned your child isn’t getting enough nutrients in their diet try focusing on nutrient dense options within your child’s safe food groups. It may surprise you that even limited diets provide more nutrition than you think, especially as many foods are fortified with extra vitamins and minerals.

If you are worried about nutrition, consider speaking with a dietician who specialises in ADHD or autism to gain more personalised advice.

Some things to remember

Expanding a child’s diet takes time and patience. It’s okay if progress is slow – every small step is a victory. Your child isn’t being difficult on purpose; they’re doing their best to navigate a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

It is important to be trustworthy and not use too many tricks to get your child to eat or try something. This is especially important with their safe foods.

Remember, what works for one child might not work for another. Keep trying different approaches, and don’t hesitate to seek support from healthcare professionals if you’re concerned about your child’s nutrition.

With understanding, creativity, and lots of patience, you can help your child develop a healthier relationship with food. Keep focusing on making mealtimes positive, and celebrate every tiny bit of progress along the way.