Autism feeding & picky eating nutrition
Autism & Picky Eating Dietitian in Sugar Land, TX
Feeding challenges in autism and ARFID are complex — they're not just about being 'a picky eater.' Rawaa Khalil Elabbassi, MS, RDN, LD provides compassionate, evidence-based nutrition support for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and restrictive eating patterns.
2245 Texas Dr Ste 300, Sugar Land, TX · Telehealth across Texas
Understanding Autism-Related Feeding Challenges
Children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have significant feeding challenges — sensory sensitivities to textures, colors, and smells; rigid food preferences; fear of new foods; and difficulty with mealtime routines. These aren't behavioral problems to be pushed through — they reflect genuine neurological differences that require a patient, individualized approach. Rawaa works collaboratively with families, caregivers, and other providers to expand food variety, address nutritional gaps, and reduce mealtime stress.
What We Help With
Autism spectrum feeding challenges
Sensory-based food refusal, limited food variety, texture and color aversions, and mealtime anxiety in children and adults with ASD.
ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
Evidence-based nutrition support for ARFID — addressing nutritional adequacy while working toward gradual food expansion.
Picky eating in children
Distinguishing typical picky eating from clinically significant feeding difficulties, and providing practical strategies for families.
Nutritional gap assessment
Identifying and addressing nutrient deficiencies common in restrictive eating — iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and more.
Family & caregiver guidance
Practical strategies for mealtimes, food introduction, and reducing mealtime conflict — for the whole family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compassionate Feeding Support for Autism & Picky Eating
New patients seen within days. In-person in Sugar Land or telehealth across Texas.
2245 Texas Dr Ste 300, Sugar Land, TX 77479 · Telehealth across Texas