Food and neurodivergence

Many of us now associate January with Veganuary (are you doing it this year?) But today I’d like to take a moment to talk about some lesser-understood topics relating to food, eating, and neurodivergence.

This week’s newsletter includes:

• Info: The link between eating disorders and neurodivergence

• Tips: How to create neuroinclusive food environments

• Recommendations: Where to get more information, better understanding and support

1. The link between eating disorders and neurodivergence

Autistic people and those with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) have a high risk of developing an eating disorder. Other forms of neurodivergence, such as giftedness, intellectual disability, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), psychosis, and Tourette’s syndrome, also appear to have a link to disordered eating.

Additionally, neurodivergent people experience eating disorder symptoms for a longer period of time and experience poorer eating disorder-related treatment outcomes when compared to neurotypical people with eating disorders.

So it’s a topic that really needs attention, and fast.

Eating disorders are complex and result in very real, debilitating and sometimes life threatening impacts for anyone who suffers from them. However, it’s really important to understand that they can manifest differently when linked to neurodivergence.

People can also get misdiagnosed with anorexia, for example, when it may actually be ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). ARFID can be due to sensory sensitivities, fear of adverse reactions, or a lack of interest in eating. Many neurodivergent people experience heightened sensory sensitivities, making certain textures, smells, or tastes intolerable. This can lead to restricted diets that impact both physical and emotional health.

Understanding the intersection of neurodivergence and eating disorders is crucial for creating supportive environments and fostering empathy, especially as conversations around food choices grow in prominence.

2. Creating neuroinclusive food environments

For organisations and individuals hosting events, catering inclusively can be a game-changer. Here are some actionable tips to support people with eating disorders that also benefit everyone.

• Label everything: Clearly indicate ingredients, allergens, and preparation methods. Transparency helps attendees make informed decisions without feeling embarrassed or excluded.

• Offer variety: Include plain, familiar foods alongside adventurous options. Plain rice, bread, or simple proteins can be a lifesaver for someone with restricted preferences.

• Ask in advance: Collect dietary requirements during event sign-ups. This simple step ensures that everyone has something they can enjoy.

• Respect boundaries: Avoid pressuring anyone to try new foods. For some, mealtime pressure can create significant anxiety.

• Provide quiet spaces: For those with sensory sensitivities, loud, crowded dining areas can be overwhelming. A quieter room to eat can make a big difference.

By adopting these inclusive practices, you’re creating a space where everyone feels welcome and supported - an essential step in building neuroinclusive workplaces and communities.

3. Recommendations

If you’d like to learn more about the intersection of neurodivergence and eating disorders, here are some resources to explore:

• Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism (BBC documentary): In this powerful documentary, Christine opens up about her experiences as an autistic woman, including struggles with food and eating. It’s an eye-opening look at how autism impacts daily life and the importance of understanding these challenges.

• Bernie Wright: Bernie has extensive experience in eating disorders and also focuses on the link with neurodiversity. She’s worth a follow on LinkedIn to understand more.

Thanks for reading, and speak soon!

Jess

PS Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways I can help:

• To book an inspiring and impactful Neurodiversity talk, head here. I’m booking now for Neurodiversity Celebration Week - w/c 17th March - get in touch to avoid disappointment.

• Book a FREE Discovery call to chat through how I can support your workplace, your school or your family.

• Join the waitlist for our next NeuroNavigator programme and become a certified Neurodiversity Champion.