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ObjectiveOur understanding of the impact of eating disorders (ED) treatment in Autistic people remains elusive. Research has begun to explore ED treatment outcomes and experiences in this population, however current understandings are poorly integrated. The current review therefore sought to explore the impact of ED treatment on Autistic people and those with higher Autistic traits.MethodA convergent, segregated approach was used, independently evaluating quantitative then qualitative studies before integrating findings into a coherent narrative synthesis.ResultsAutistic people and people with higher Autistic traits report poorer experiences of treatment and may be at increased risk of inpatient admission and prolonged inpatient treatment, possibly explained by difficulties with treatment timeframes and a lack of autism‐informed support. Both groups reported similar improvements in ED symptoms and BMI. Higher rates of psychosocial difficulties pre‐and post‐treatment were reported in those with higher Autistic traits, and emotion‐focused interventions were felt to be particularly relevant to Autistic presentations of EDs. Concerns were reported as to how well aligned group‐based programs and cognitive‐based interventions are for Autistic individuals and those reporting higher Autistic traits.DiscussionFuture research in diagnosed autism samples is urgently needed to develop a more robust understanding of Autistic outcomes and experiences. Review findings demonstrate the need for increased understanding of ED presentations and the possible need for treatment adaptations, for Autistic people or those with higher Autistic traits.
ObjectiveOur understanding of the impact of eating disorders (ED) treatment in Autistic people remains elusive. Research has begun to explore ED treatment outcomes and experiences in this population, however current understandings are poorly integrated. The current review therefore sought to explore the impact of ED treatment on Autistic people and those with higher Autistic traits.MethodA convergent, segregated approach was used, independently evaluating quantitative then qualitative studies before integrating findings into a coherent narrative synthesis.ResultsAutistic people and people with higher Autistic traits report poorer experiences of treatment and may be at increased risk of inpatient admission and prolonged inpatient treatment, possibly explained by difficulties with treatment timeframes and a lack of autism‐informed support. Both groups reported similar improvements in ED symptoms and BMI. Higher rates of psychosocial difficulties pre‐and post‐treatment were reported in those with higher Autistic traits, and emotion‐focused interventions were felt to be particularly relevant to Autistic presentations of EDs. Concerns were reported as to how well aligned group‐based programs and cognitive‐based interventions are for Autistic individuals and those reporting higher Autistic traits.DiscussionFuture research in diagnosed autism samples is urgently needed to develop a more robust understanding of Autistic outcomes and experiences. Review findings demonstrate the need for increased understanding of ED presentations and the possible need for treatment adaptations, for Autistic people or those with higher Autistic traits.
The recent systematic review and meta‐analysis by Inal–Kaleli et al. is situated within a growing area of research, investigating the relationship between anorexia nervosa and autistic characteristics. Their synthesis of research within the topic finds support for elevated autistic characteristics and autism in individuals with anorexia nervosa and a small but significant correlation between autistic traits and level of eating disorder symptoms. In this commentary, we discuss the findings of Inal‐Kaleli and colleagues and propose further research to generate insights into the nature of this link. We focus on the potential origins of the observed relationship, specific mechanisms, and manifestation of anorexia nervosa in autistic populations, and the influence of sex and gender on the intersection of eating disorders and autism. By addressing these largely unexplored research avenues, future investigations can go beyond the phenotypic correlations and facilitate the development of prevention and intervention suited for individuals experiencing both disordered eating and elevated autistic traits.
This study evaluated food preferences and eating behaviors of individuals with Dravet syndrome. Patients diagnosed with Dravet syndrome were recruited, as well as a control group composed of siblings of patients with epilepsy (any form). The Food Preference Questionnaire and the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire were completed by caregivers along with two open‐ended questions regarding eating challenges. Seventy‐eight participants (45 with Dravet syndrome and 33 controls) were included. Compared to controls, mean scores for food preference were lower for fruits (p = .000099), meats and fish (p = .00094), and snacks (p = .000027) in Dravet syndrome. People with Dravet syndrome also had less emotional overeating (p = .0085) and food enjoyment (p = .0012), but more slowness in eating (p = .00021) and food fussiness (p = .0064). In a subgroup analysis of only pediatric (age <18 years) patients, similar results were observed for both food preferences and eating habits. In qualitative data, caregivers most commonly reported difficulties with fixation on specific foods. This study demonstrates specific food preferences and challenging eating behaviors in individuals with Dravet syndrome. These data provide potential avenues for nutritional interventions and behavioral therapies to increase the quality of life of patients and their families.
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