Evaluation of nutritional status of autistic individuals in Iskenderun special education centers

Autism Spectrum Disorder (OSB) is a neurodevelopmental illness that affects language, social and communication skills. The prevalence of OSB has been increasing rapidly in recent years. With correct eating habits and regulation of the gastrointestinal system, the disease table can be improved. This study was planned to identify the nutritional status of 21 female and 29 male autistic children between the ages of 6 and 18 who are studying at special education institutions in Iskenderun. Within the scope of this study general information about the family, general information about the autistic subject, nutrition information and three days of food consumption record were taken with approval from the families. Survey data were analyzed using the SPSS 16.0 (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) package program. Within the scope of the analysis, frequency tables, descriptive statistics, Independent Sampling T Test, One Way Variance Analysis, Chi Square Test, Pearson Correlation Analysis were used. Daily energy intake and nutrient values from the obtained data were calculated using BEBIS (Nutritional Information System) program. 20% of the girls who participated in the survey and 18% of the men were found to be weak (≥5 - <15) compared to the percentiles. It has been observed that 10% of children have swallowing and chewing problems. When the education level of the families is examined, it is determined that 54% of the fathers and 44% of the mothers are primary school graduates. When we look at the relationship between the education level of the mother and the situation of special cooking for the autistic child, it is seen that 40% of the mothers with low education level do not have a special meal for the child. Carbohydrate and fat intake were adequate for the individuals participating in the study, while protein, calcium, fiber and iron intake were lower than the RDA values. As a result, it is aimed to evaluate nutritional status of autistic children.