Estratégias de impacto na seletividade alimentar em crianças com transtorno do espectro autista: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Food selectivity is a significant issue affecting many children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), directly impacting nutritional development and eating behavior. In this context, the study aimed to verify the effectiveness of dietary therapies on food selectivity in children with ASD. An integrative, descriptive, and exploratory literature review was conducted using the Medline, Lilacs, and Scielo databases, considering the period from 2019 to 2024, with the main inclusion criterion being a direct relationship with the proposed objective. The final sample consisted of 10 articles, which were analyzed descriptively, considering aspects such as authorship, publication year, type of research, objectives, and main results. The collected data revealed that various therapeutic interventions demonstrated effectiveness in improving food acceptance and eating behavior in children. Global Intensive Feeding Therapy (GIFT), behavioral interventions, and sensory integration therapies were some of the identified approaches effective in modifying food selectivity. The observed improvements in interventions indicate that combining nutritional strategies with behavioral and sensory approaches can have a positive impact on the eating behavior of children with ASD. It is essential that interventions be tailored to the individual needs of each child, considering their sensory and emotional particularities. Additionally, involving families in the therapeutic process proved crucial for the success of dietary strategies, fostering a favorable environment for accepting new foods. The final considerations of this work highlight the importance of integrated approaches to address food selectivity in children with ASD. Implementing personalized protocols that combine different interventions can maximize results and promote a more balanced diet. This study contributes to understanding effective nutritional strategies and emphasizes the need for further research exploring the individualization of interventions. Future investigations are recommended to focus on methodologies integrating nutritional practices with behavioral and sensory interventions, as well as training caregivers and health professionals, aiming for more effective treatment adapted to the needs of each child with ASD.