Neurodiversity and Eating Disorders: What’s the Connection?
When we talk about eating disorders, we often think about body image or dieting pressures. But research shows there’s a strong overlap between neurodiverse individuals like Autistic, ADHDer, and other brain differences, and eating disorders or eating differences.
Why the Overlap?
Many neurodivergent people experience the world differently, and this can directly impact eating. For example:
Autism and eating: Sensory sensitivities (textures, smells, tastes), strong preferences for routines, and difficulty noticing hunger or fullness (interoception) can all shape eating habits.
ADHD and eating: Challenges with planning, impulsivity, and irregular appetite often lead to skipped meals, overeating, or using food as stimulation or comfort.
What might look like “disordered eating” can sometimes be better understood as a way of coping with sensory overload, emotions, or executive function challenges. So you’re telling me my eating disorder helps me cope with an overstimulating environment?
Why It Matters
Traditional eating disorder approaches don’t always meet the needs of neurodivergent people. A “one-size-fits-all” approach, like rigid meal plans or structured therapy may not feel accessible or sustainable. And sometimes even harmful for different brains.
That’s where neuroaffirming care comes in. By recognising and respecting differences, treatment can be adapted to:
Understand the function or the coping mechanism of the eating style
Honour sensory preferences
Build flexible and realistic routines
Focus on strengths, not deficits
Reduce shame and stigma
A More Compassionate Approach
Understanding the overlap between neurodiversity and eating disorders is an important step in providing an inclusive, and effective treatment. Every brain and body is unique, and deserves to feel safe. So recovery can look different for everyone.
Are you ready to take a step towards feeling safe? Contact us here.
