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Feeding Problems and Nutrient Intake in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Meta-analysis and Comprehensive Review of the Literature

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Abstract

We conducted a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of research regarding feeding problems and nutrient status among children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The systematic search yielded 17 prospective studies involving a comparison group. Using rigorous meta-analysis techniques, we calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) with standard error and corresponding odds ratio (OR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Results indicated children with ASD experienced significantly more feeding problems versus peers, with an overall SMD of 0.89 (0.08) and a corresponding OR of 5.11, 95 % CI 3.74–6.97. Nutrient analyses indicated significantly lower intake of calcium (SMD: −0.65 [0.29]; OR: 0.31, 95 % CI 0.11–0.85) and protein (SMD: −0.58 [0.25]; OR: 0.35, 95 % CI: 0.14–0.56) in ASD. Future research must address critical questions regarding the cause, long-term impact, and remediation of atypical feeding in this population.

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Conflict of interest

This was an unfunded study and no member of the research team has a conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA

    William G. Sharp, Courtney McCracken, Celine A. Saulnier, Ami Klin, Warren Jones & David L. Jaquess

  2. The Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA

    William G. Sharp, Rashelle C. Berry, Nadrat N. Nuhu, Elizabeth Marvel, Celine A. Saulnier, Ami Klin, Warren Jones & David L. Jaquess

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  1. William G. Sharp
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Correspondence to William G. Sharp.

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Sharp, W.G., Berry, R.C., McCracken, C. et al. Feeding Problems and Nutrient Intake in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Meta-analysis and Comprehensive Review of the Literature. J Autism Dev Disord 43, 2159–2173 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-013-1771-5

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