Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Feeding Challenges and Eating Behaviours

What is FASD? 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of disabilities and diagnoses that can result from prenatal exposure to alcohol. 

Maternal nutrition can often be compromised when alcohol is consumed, especially in situations of chronic alcoholism. 

Hypersensitivity 

Children and youth with FASD who experience hypersensitivity to taste may be extremely picky eaters, reacting strongly to certain flavors, temperatures, or food textures. They might refuse to eat foods that are too spicy, sour, or bitter, and exhibit a limited diet. 

Research has found: 

• Feeding dysfunction among children diagnosed with FASD. 

• A high frequency of feeding disorders among infants with prenatal alcohol exposure. 

• Feeding problems in this group do not fade after infancy. 

• Experience delayed acquisition of self-feeding behaviours and introduction of solid food 

• Impaired self-regulation of hunger and satiety 

• Tendency to snack and hide food 

• Diet is deficient in fibre, potassium, vitamins E, K, omega-3 fatty acids and choline 

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What to Know: 

• Effects from increased blood sugar has regulation on mood, attention, and impulsivity. 

• Follow dietary patterns that support stable energy and focus (balanced meals, low added sugars). 

• Importance of maternal nutrition before and during pregnancy to prevent FASD. 

• Establishing structured mealtimes and positive feeding environments support predictability and routines. 

• Start with in smaller amounts and more frequently throughout the day.  

• Eliminate distractions during mealtimes (i.e., turning off electronics). 

• Some children do not like foods to touch on one plate. If this is your child’s preference, a plate with separations may be helpful! 

For FASD support, please reach out to CaitlynSmall@mushkegowuk.ca

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Resource .pdf

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