It is common for children with ASD to have eating difficulties which can continue into adulthood; these are usually linked to sensory experiences and preferences rather than weight and shape concerns.

However a link between Eating disorders and Autism spectrum conditions is being increasingly recognised. Recently the National Eating Disorder service at the Maudsley Hospital has reported that up to 35% of the women they see meet the criteria for Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It remains unclear if ASD is a direct factor or developing an eating disorder.

When we think about eating disorders we often consider weight and shape concerns and holding thinness as a key value as being the core issue. However in Autism and eating disorders the restrictive eating and low body weight that creates a numbing of sensory overwhelm and emotions can be the driving influence.

When an individual has both Autism and an eating disorder treatment needs to be highly personalised considering the individual's experience of their ASD and the eating disorder psychopathology. There is no single model of treatment that is shown to be effective on its own and treatment should be created for the individual by a clinician who is expert in both areas.

Here at the London Autism Service we also have a specialist Eating Disorder Service with clinicians who are experts in both areas, please get in touch to find out more.