According to research, children with autism generally consume similar amounts of nutrients compared to children without autism. However, there may be differences in the intake of specific nutrients, such as calcium and protein.
Children with autism may have a lower intake of calcium and protein, which could be attributed to their rigidity in food selection and behaviors during family mealtimes. This can pose challenges in meeting their dietary needs and ensuring they receive adequate nutrition.
This is where healthy snacks come in. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the healthy snacks that autistic individuals should consume.
Healthy Snack Ideas
Before anything else, parents and caregivers should keep in mind that it’s important to choose options that are not only nutritious but also appealing to their taste and sensory preferences.
That said, here are five healthy snack ideas that can be enjoyed by children with autism:
Puffed Rice Granola
Puffed rice granola is a delicious and crunchy snack that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Made with puffed rice, nuts, seeds, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, it provides a satisfying texture and a dose of nutrients.
This snack is gluten-free and can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with yogurt or milk for added variety.
Dried Apple Slices
Dried apple slices are a convenient and nutritious snack option. They offer a natural sweetness and a chewy texture that can be appealing to individuals with autism. Rich in fiber and antioxidants, dried apple slices provide a healthy alternative to sugary snacks.
They can be enjoyed as is or paired with nut butter for a delightful combination of flavors.
Gluten-Free Goldfish Crackers
Gluten-free goldfish crackers are a great snack option for individuals with autism who may have dietary restrictions. These crackers are made from alternative flour like rice flour or almond flour, making them suitable for those who avoid gluten.
Packed with flavor and crunch, gluten-free goldfish crackers can be enjoyed on their own or paired with hummus or cheese for added protein.
Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Rainbow fruit skewers are a visually appealing and nutritious snack option. Using a variety of colorful fruits such as strawberries, pineapple, grapes, and blueberries, you can create vibrant skewers that are both fun to eat and packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
This snack not only provides essential nutrients but also helps to develop fine motor skills during the assembling process.
Mango Coconut Popsicles
Mango coconut popsicles are a refreshing and healthy treat, perfect for warmer days. Made with pureed mango, coconut milk, and a touch of honey or agave syrup, these popsicles offer a tropical burst of flavor.
They can be made at home using popsicle molds or ice cube trays for smaller portions. This snack is not only delicious but also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Challenges in Autism Nutrition
Unfortunately, there are unique challenges that parents and caregivers should address in their autistic children. These two key challenges are sensory sensitivities and mealtime difficulties, which can impact the dietary choices and overall eating experience for individuals with autism.
Children with autism may have sensory sensitivities that extend beyond just the taste of food. They may also be sensitive to the color, smell, or texture of certain foods. This hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli can make it challenging to find foods that meet the dietary needs of children with autism while also providing the necessary nutritional value.
For example, some children with autism may be averse to certain textures, such as foods that are crunchy or slimy. This can limit the variety of foods they are willing to eat and may lead to an unbalanced diet.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to be aware of these sensitivities and work towards finding suitable alternatives that still provide the necessary nutrients.
Mealtime can also present difficulties for individuals with autism due to their unique characteristics and sensory sensitivities. Children with autism may have difficulty focusing on one thing for a long period.
This can result in inadequate nutrient intake and potential nutrient deficiencies.
Introducing snacks specifically tailored for children with autism can help address these mealtime difficulties. Snacks can provide additional opportunities for nutrition throughout the day and ensure that essential nutrients are being consumed.
However, finding healthy snacks that also satisfy their tastes can be a challenge.
Parents of children with autism may face additional stressors related to their child’s eating habits. Increased sensitivity to food attributes, ritualistic eating habits, and difficulty focusing during mealtimes are some of the challenges that parents may encounter.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to create a supportive and understanding environment during mealtimes to help alleviate some of these difficulties.
Benefits of Healthy Snacks
Needless to say, snacks play a crucial role in providing additional nutrition and supporting the overall well-being of individuals with autism. Here are some key benefits of incorporating healthy snacks into their diet:
Healthy snacks can make a big difference for kids with autism. Whether it’s crunchy veggies, creamy yogurt, or a tasty fruit smoothie, these snacks are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to help your child thrive.
So, next time you’re looking for a snack, remember these healthy options to keep your child happy and energized. Meanwhile, if you need specialized support, consider Golden Care Therapy’s ABA services in Indiana, New Jersey, Georgia, and New York. Contact us today to book a session or learn more about our offerings.
