Sensory processing and eating behaviours in autism: A systematic review.

This review looked at how sensory issues affect eating in autistic people of all ages. After studying 25 research papers, they found clear links between sensory processing problems and eating difficulties. Taste and smell sensitivities seemed particularly important. The connection between sensory issues and eating problems appears to continue throughout life, from childhood to adulthood.

This systematic review examined the relationship between sensory processing and eating behaviours in autistic individuals across the lifespan. Analysis of 25 studies revealed consistent evidence linking sensory processing difficulties to various eating behaviours. The review found particular evidence for the role of taste and smell sensitivities, as well as hypersensitivities generally. Tentative evidence suggested this relationship exists across developmental stages.

The authors identified methodological limitations and called for future research examining multi-sensory issues, clearly defined eating behaviours, and disordered eating in clinically diagnosed samples to develop a more comprehensive understanding of this relationship.

Findings support the development of sensory-based eating and feeding interventions. Clinicians should consider sensory processing patterns, particularly taste/smell sensitivities and hypersensitivities, when addressing eating difficulties. The relationship may also inform understanding and prevention of eating disorder development in autism.

The review identified methodological and conceptual limitations in the included studies. The authors called for broader investigation of multi-sensory issues and more clearly defined eating behaviours, particularly examining disordered eating in clinically diagnosed samples.

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between sensory processing and a broad range of eating behaviours across the lifespan. Five electronic databases of published and unpublished quantitative studies were systematically searched, evaluated for risk of bias and synthesised according to identified eating outcomes. Across 25 studies, there was consistent evidence of a relationship between sensory processing and a range of eating behaviours. There was early evidence for the particular role of taste/smell sensitivities, as well as hypersensitivities, although future research is needed looking at different sensory patterns and modalities.

There was also tentative evidence to suggest this relationship extends across development. Study findings are discussed in relation to implications for sensory-based eating and feeding interventions and the development of eating disorders. Methodological and conceptual limitations are discussed and suggestions for future research are made to address these limitations. A broader investigation of multi-sensory issues and clearly defined eating behaviours, including disordered eating in clinically diagnosed samples, will allow for a more comprehensive and robust understanding of the relationship between sensory processing and eating behaviours in autism.