Treatments for Eating Disorders in People with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review.
Feeding interventions for autism are many but weak—pick parent-led or telehealth models and measure consistently until bigger studies land.
01Research in Context
What this study did
Simeon et al. (2025) searched every feeding study they could find for people with autism.
They pulled 61 experiments that used behavior plans, OT tricks, or mixed packages.
The team did not pool numbers; they simply mapped what had been tried.
What they found
Lots of ideas exist, but most studies are tiny and measure different things.
Because samples are small and methods differ, no single approach stands out as best.
How this fits with other research
Schaaf et al. (2015) ran a parent-training RCT called the Autism MEAL Plan. Parents liked it and felt less stress. Simeon’s map counts this study, showing parent coaching is one real option.
TVEmerson et al. (2023) tested an app-based program. It helped only the kids who began with very low fruit and veggie intake. Simeon’s review lists this trial too, flagging that mHealth may work for a narrow slice.
Williams et al. (2023) narrative review urged telehealth and caregiver delivery. Simeon’s 2025 scoping picture backs that call: most face-to-face studies are small, so moving online could widen reach without losing effect.
Why it matters
You now know the feeding shelf is full of small, shaky jars. Pick an approach that fits your client’s sensory profile and your setting, but track data the same way each session. Start with parent-led or telehealth models—they have the brightest signals until larger, uniform trials arrive.
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02At a glance
03Original abstract
Background: This scoping review aims to synthesize existing evidence on non-pharmacological interventions for managing food selectivity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Specifically, it explores sensory, behavioral, and environmental factors influencing intervention outcomes and examines the role of occupational therapists (OTs) within multidisciplinary teams. Methods: A search was conducted across MEDLINE, EBSCO, Web of Science, OTseeker, and SCOPUS from August 2023 to October 2023. Only experimental studies published in English were included, focusing on behavioral treatments and/or occupational therapy interventions. Results: A total of 1618 studies were identified. After removing duplicates (170 records), 259 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, resulting in 61 studies included for qualitative synthesis. Conclusions: The findings highlight a wide range of interventions, yet methodological inconsistencies and small sample sizes limit the strength of the evidence. While occupational therapists play an increasing role in feeding interventions, their specific impact remains underexplored. Future research should focus on larger, well-designed studies with standardized outcome measures to better define the effectiveness of interventions and the role of OTs within multidisciplinary teams.
Pediatric Reports, 2025 · doi:10.3390/pediatric17020035