Examining food selectivity and its effects in children with autism

Relationship Between Sensory and Behavioral Aspects With Particular Attention to Food Selectivity in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Parental Stress Perceived

Observational IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris · NCT06335030

This study looks at how picky eating affects preschool children with autism and their families to see if it relates to their growth, symptoms, and stress levels.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages2 Years to 6 Years
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Pisa, PI and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06335030 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on preschool children aged 2-6 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to investigate the characteristics of food selectivity and its correlation with ASD symptoms, cognitive functioning, and parental stress. Conducted across three clinical centers in Italy, the study aims to evaluate how food selectivity impacts children's growth, gastrointestinal symptoms, and oro-motor skills. By understanding these relationships, the research seeks to inform future therapeutic interventions that address both the child's needs and parental involvement.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are preschool children aged 2-6 years who have been diagnosed with ASD according to DSM-5 criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with brain malformations, genetic syndromes, specific neurological signs, prematurity, epilepsy, or those on a non-free diet may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for food selectivity in children with autism, enhancing their overall well-being and family dynamics.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on food selectivity in ASD is less explored, related studies have shown success in understanding sensory and behavioral aspects of autism, indicating potential for meaningful insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Children (2-6 years)
* diagnosed with ASD according to DSM-5 criteria at the IRCCS Stella Maris institute (Operational Unit 3 ASD Department)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Brain Malformation
* Genetic syndromes
* specifical neurological signs
* prematurity
* epilepsy
* non free diet.

Where this trial is running

Pisa, PI and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Autism Spectrum DisorderFood SelectivityAutismParental StressSensory Profile
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.