Feeding problems and nutrient intake in children with autism spectrum disorders: a meta-analysis and comprehensive review of the literature.
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.
Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA. wgsharp@emory.edu
William G
WG
Sharp
Rashelle C
RC
Berry
Courtney
C
McCracken
Nadrat N
NN
Nuhu
Elizabeth
E
Marvel
Celine A
CA
Saulnier
Ami
A
Klin
Warren
W
Jones
David L
DL
Jaquess
D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000150:complications*; D004435:Eating / Q000523:psychology*; D002149:Energy Intake; D019959:Feeding and Eating Disorders of Childhood / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans