Children with autism are at an elevated risk for feeding problems and nutritional deficiencies, according to new research. A comprehensive analysis of children with various autism spectrum disorders (ASD), shows that such children are five times more likely to experience a feeding problem.

Feeding problems were characterized by extreme tantrums during a meal, severe food selectivity and ritualistic behaviors during mealtime.

Researchers from the Marcus Autism Center and the Department of Pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine conducted a meta-analysis of all existing published, peer-reviewed research on the subject of feeding problems and autism.

An examination of dietary nutrients indicated a much lower intake of calcium and protein, and researchers discovered a higher overall number of nutritional deficits among children with autism.

Study results were published in the February 1 online edition of the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

William Sharp, a behavioral pediatric psychologist with the Pediatric Feeding Disorders Program at Marcus Autism Center and an assistant professor at Emory University School of Medicine, said in a statement, “The results of this study have broad implications for children with autism.” He continued, “It not only highlights the importance of assessing mealtime concerns as part of routine health care screenings, but also suggests the need for greater focus on diet and nutrition in the autism community.”

Ongoing feeding problems enhance a child’s risk of poor medical and developmental outcomes, such as malnutrition, growth retardation, poor academic achievement and social deficits. Recent evidence indicates that the feeding issues and dietary patterns that are associated with autism could increase the long-term risk of medical problems and other complications within this population.