Aim: To assess the extent of the scientific literature on avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) in children and young people with autism in order to evaluate and synthesize the evidence on (a) the nature of feeding and eating difficulties in children and young people with autism; (b) the consequences of a severely restricted diet; and (c) what is known about effective treatment approaches.
Method: PubMed and PsycInfo databases were searched, identifying 56 studies and a narrative synthesis was effected.
Results: The literature suggested that ARFID-like presentations are common in children and young people with autism, with severe consequences for physical and mental health. The three drivers mentioned in the DSM-5 criteria, namely a sensory-based avoidance, fear- or phobia-based restriction, and a lack of interest in eating, are present in this population, although sensory sensitivities are currently the most commonly described. Research suggests that ARFID symptoms in children and young people with autism can be amenable to treatment, with evidence that behavioural interventions are feasible and potentially effective in this population.
Interpretation: ARFID is a common and impactful problem among young people with autism but is currently under researched. Work is required to (a) identify the prevalence of ARFID in children and young people with autism; (b) uncover the key drivers of ARFID in this population; (c) adapt currently available interventions for use with children and young people with autism; and (d) rigorously test these interventions in clinical trials.
What this paper adds: Significant food restriction is common in children and young people with autism. Sensory sensitivities are frequently cited as a reason for food restriction. The prevalence and causes of avoidant/restrictive food disorders in children and young people with autism need further research.
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