Neurodivergence and Trauma: Understanding Food Struggles
The fourth article in our Neurodivergence and Trauma series examines how children with ADHD and autism, as well as those who have suffered neglect or trauma, may have struggles around food. If you’ve not already read Sarah’s previous articles, you can find parts one, two and three here.
For many children in foster care, food is complicated. Some have lived where meals were scarce, unpredictable, or used as punishment or reward. Others used food for comfort in unsafe environments. These early experiences shape how children eat today, often showing up as “fussiness,” refusing variety, or suddenly rejecting foods they once loved.
For children with ADHD and autism, there’s an added layer. Their brains and sensory systems influence how they experience food, and understanding this helps carers approach mealtimes with empathy rather than frustration
Hyper fixation Meals
Neurodivergent children often rely on “hyper fixation meals” – eating the same food repeatedly until it’s no longer appealing. This isn’t simply a habit; it’s tied to how their brains seek comfort and predictability.
ADHD: Dopamine and Decision-Making
Children with ADHD often have lower dopamine levels, making favourite foods rewarding and hard to give up. When interest fades, it can feel sudden and confusing.
They may also struggle with planning and decision-making, so sticking to a familiar food reduces stress and offers a sense of control.
Autism: Sensory Sensitivities
For autistic children, food choices are strongly shaped by sensory processing. New textures, tastes, and smells can overwhelm. Familiar foods—especially those that stay consistent, like biscuits—feel safe, while fresh foods like apples vary each time and can feel unpredictable.
Foster Care Context
When ADHD, autism, and trauma intersect, children may:
- Prefer foods that taste the same every time.
- Use food as a way to assert control.
- Struggle with trust if food was once tied to punishment or reward.
Supporting Children at Mealtimes
Carers can make mealtimes calmer and more positive by:
- Introducing change gently—small tweaks to familiar meals.
- Respecting favourites—repetition is often comfort, not defiance.
- Prioritising nutrition where possible—find nutrient-dense versions of preferred foods.
- Avoiding pressure—safety and trust matter more than variety.
- Accepting sudden dislikes—today’s “no” might be tomorrow’s “yes.”
Children in foster care often carry layered experiences with food. ADHD and autism add further complexity through dopamine differences, executive function challenges, and sensory sensitivities. What looks like fussiness is often a coping strategy.
By understanding these patterns and responding with patience, carers can transform meals from points of conflict into opportunities for comfort, healing, and trust.
You can check out the rest of our Neurodivergence and Trauma Series here:
