The Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Autism
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder that impacts an individual's social and cognitive skills. While early intervention helps with symptoms in children, individuals may not get diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood. However, research in recent years indicates a possible overlap between eating disorders and autism spectrum disorder.
By: Regina Colie
Autism spectrum disorder carries various developmental issues that impact an individual's daily functioning. Some symptoms of autism spectrum disorder include "difficulty interpreting others' body language, repetitive behaviors, trouble regulating emotions, and sensory issues" (The Emily Program, 2022). Individuals can get diagnosed early if signs or symptoms appear in one's behavior. However, some may not receive a diagnosis until their adolescence or adulthood. For those who have autism, one of the symptoms they experience is sensory issues with specific textures and tastes. They may also repeat various behaviors, such as counting calories or exercising regularly. The phase of picky eating is not uncommon. However, the continuation of restricted eating may lead to malnutrition or can inevitably lead to an eating disorder.
What is the Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Autism?
There are several indicators that autism spectrum disorder and eating disorders are linked. According to Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, the founder of Embrace Autism, "70% of autistics have atypical eating behaviors, while up to 30% of us have an eating disorder. This is over 3 times the prevalence rate of the general population, which is 9%” (Jones, 2023). She also notes that alexithymia may explain why these two disorders are connected. Alexithymia is a condition where individuals have difficulty understanding and describing their emotions. Research also shows that individuals with autism who don't grow past the picky eating phase may develop ARFID or avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. ARFID is a new eating disorder to get categorized in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) in recent years. Still, it is "an eating or feeding disorder characterized by a persistent and disturbed pattern of feeding or eating that leads to a failure to meet nutritional/energy needs." (Eating Disorders Victoria, 2023).
Another source for concern with autistic individuals possibly struggling with eating disorders is the concept of interoception. Interoception is the ability of individuals to perceive their senses, such as when they’re hungry or thirsty. However, autistic individuals have difficulty understanding interoception. Therefore, they may be unable to interpret intuitive eating. However, everyone’s case is different, so treatment options are available to help treat individuals facing these disorders.
How Can I Get Treatment for Eating Disorders and Autism?
The best way to receive comprehensive care is to have professionals who understand the possible overlap of autism spectrum disorder coinciding with an eating disorder. Dr. Engelbrecht writes, "When considering a patient with anorexia nervosa, it is crucial to determine whether it results from starvation or underlying autism. There is a high overlap in traits and brain effects associated with starvation and autism" (Jones, 2023). In a sense, an individual with autism needs to have a structured treatment plan that allows them to receive the care they deserve. Also, education and training for healthcare professionals are crucial for helping those in need. As research continues to evolve, so will the accessibility and advocacy for these individuals.
BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™ knows it can feel scary to take the first step in reaching out for support. We offer a bi-monthly free virtual support group intended for those contemplating eating disorder support or for loved ones seeking help.
If you or someone you love is struggling, the BALANCE admissions team would be happy to answer any questions you have about our programs and services. Book a call below, or read more about our philosophy here.
This post was written by BALANCE Blog Contributor, Regina Colie (she/her).
Regina Colie is currently pursuing her Masters in General Psychology at The New School For Social Research. She is interested in working with women who have eating disorders and postpartum depression. Upon her graduation from Marymount Manhattan College, she had the opportunity to be published in Dr. Nava Silton’s book, The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child, Adolescent, and Adult Development. Her previous work has been featured in Project HEAL, BALANCE, Olive Branch Nutrition, and Nourishing NY.
References
Autism and Eating Disorders. (2022, November 21). The Emily Program. https://emilyprogram.com/blog/autism-and-eating-disorders/
Jones, E. N. R. &. K. (2023, February 2). Autism & eating disorders. Embrace Autism. https://embrace-autism.com/autism-and-eating-disorders/
Eating Disorders Victoria. (2023, March 22). Eating Disorders and Autism - Eating Disorders Victoria. https://www.eatingdisorders.org.au/eating-disorders-a-z/eating-disorders-and-autism/