For many neurodivergent individuals, mealtimes can be a battleground. Sensory sensitivities, common in conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD, can make eating a well-rounded diet a challenge. Textures, smells, and the visual presentation of food can trigger negative reactions, leading to a restricted diet of familiar, “safe” foods. These challenges can sometimes be mistaken for a person being a “picky eater”, when, in fact, sensory sensitivities are causing extreme distress or discomfort.
This challenge can be very concerning because a balanced diet is crucial for overall health and well-being. It provides the essential nutrients our brains and bodies need to function optimally, but achieving a balanced diet can be difficult for neurodivergent individuals.
This challenge can be very concerning because a balanced diet is crucial for overall health and well-being. It provides the essential nutrients our brains and bodies need to function optimally, but achieving a balanced diet can be difficult for neurodivergent individuals.
How Sensory Issues Can Impact Diet:
- Texture: Certain textures, like mushy vegetables or chewy meats, can be overwhelming.
- Smell: Strong-smelling foods might be unpleasant, leading to avoidance of healthy options like fish.
- Taste: Sensitivity to bitterness or spiciness can limit variety.
- Visual Presentation: If foods touch on the plate or look “unappealing,” they may be rejected.
How to Help Neurodivergent Individuals Achieve a More Balanced Diet:
1. Embrace Smoothies and Purées: Smoothies are a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of fruits, and vegetables, as well as protein sources like yogurt. Experiment with textures by adding nut butter for creaminess or leafy greens for a hidden nutrient boost. Puréed soups or mashed vegetables can offer a similar solution.
1. Embrace Smoothies and Purées: Smoothies are a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of fruits, and vegetables, as well as protein sources like yogurt. Experiment with textures by adding nut butter for creaminess or leafy greens for a hidden nutrient boost. Puréed soups or mashed vegetables can offer a similar solution.
2. Explore Feeding Therapy: A feeding therapist can work with you and/or your child to develop strategies for introducing new foods and textures in a safe and supportive environment. They can also help with techniques for managing sensory sensitivities during mealtimes.
3. Consider Vitamin Supplementation: A healthcare professional can recommend a multi-vitamin or specific supplements to address any nutritional gaps caused by a limited diet. However, it’s important to remember that supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet.
Here are some additional tips:
Involve the eater in meal prep:Let them choose the colors or shapes of the ingredients going into a smoothie.
Start small: Introduce new foods gradually, one texture or taste at a time.
Offer choices: Provide a few options within a safe category (e.g., different colored bell peppers) to give a sense of control.
Make mealtimes positive: Avoid pressure and create a relaxed atmosphere.
Involve the eater in meal prep:Let them choose the colors or shapes of the ingredients going into a smoothie.
Start small: Introduce new foods gradually, one texture or taste at a time.
Offer choices: Provide a few options within a safe category (e.g., different colored bell peppers) to give a sense of control.
Make mealtimes positive: Avoid pressure and create a relaxed atmosphere.
