Avaliação do consumo dietético em indivíduos com Transtorno do Espectro Autista

Abstract

To know the adequacy of energy consumption, macronutrients and antioxidant micronutrients, from the feeding of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. A cross-sectional study carried out in the Autistic Care Center with students from 2 to 18 years of age. Sociodemographic, clinical and food consumption variables were collected in an interview with those responsible. Subsequently, the anthropometric measurements were performed. The variables analyzed were the consumption of carbohydrate, protein, lipid, and vitamins B12, C, A, E; in addition to iron, selenium, zinc and total energy value of the diet. The majority of students with ASD (84.6%, n = 77) were boys, aged between 2 and 8 years (70.0%, n = 59). Excess weight prevailed for 64.8% (n = 57) of the sample. The consumption of vitamins C and A corresponded to values below the RAS for 23% (n = 21) and 83% (n = 60) of those evaluated, respectively, with ages ranging from 9 to 18 years. (N = 26, p = 0.018) to those younger than 2 to 8 years (vitriol C 12%, n = 7, vit A, 59%, n = 14, p <0.001; %, N = 34). Ingestion of selenium and zinc were below requirements in 43% (n = 38) and 19% (n = 17). In the age group between 9 and 18 years, these percentages were higher (58%, n = 18 and Zn 31%, n = 10) than those presented by those between 2 and 8 years old (If 34%, n = 20, p = 0.043 And Zn 12%, n = 7, p = 0.046). As for the most cited foods, cow's milk contributed most to vitamins (A, B12 and E) and minerals (Se and Zn). Although energy intake and macronutrient distribution of food were adequate for children and adolescents with ASD, the intake of vitamins and minerals was below the needs of a portion of the sample.