Determination of nutritional status of autistic children and effect of nutrition education of families

Autism and Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are a neurodevelopmental problematic behavior that leads to a wide spectrum, which is a lifelong disorder that usually leads to various difficult social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. The aim of this study was to determine the nutritonal status, anthropometric measurements of autistic children and the effect of nutrition education given to parents in a private educational centre in Gaziantep, Turkey. A 3-month intervention study was held in Hasan Kalyoncu University Special Education and Research Center on 10 male and 4 female autistic children, 4-9 years age (mean±S: 7,2±1,37 years). Nutrition education was given to families at the beginning, 1st, 2nd and 3rd months. Demographic characteristics and nutritional habits of children were determined by a questionnaire. At the beginning and on the 3rd month of the study. 24- hour dietary intakes for 7 consecutive days were assessed. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were assessed at the beginning and on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd months. Body mass index, waist / hip circumference ratio (WC), waist circumference / height (WC) ratio were calculated. At the end of the study, "Children's Eating Behavior Inventory (CEBI)" and "Gastrointestional Severity Index (GI)" questionnaires were applied to families. Energy, fibre, vitamins D, B1, folate, iron and calcium intakes were found below the daily recommended levels. Percentages of energy contribution of fat were found high. Mean differences between height, body weight, hip, neck and head circumferences, body fat mass and body fat percentages were found statistically significant within 3 months (p <0,05).Cebı score was found 102,8±7,91. CEBI scores for negative eating behavior was found higher in girls than boys (p<0,05) and 4-6 years age than 7-9 years (p<0,05). Overall, 53,1% of children had at least one GI symptom. Mean score was 5,6. The most common symptoms were diarrhea (64,3%), bloating (57,1%), abdominal pain (50,0%) and constipation (35,7%). Positive outcomes of nutrition education were determined in ASD children. For enhancing families nutrition awareness of autistic children dietitian's role in the team should be ensured.