A case-control study on body composition of ASD children

Objective To understand body composition and nutritional status of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children,and to provide basis for comprehensive promotion among children with ASD.Methods A cluster sample of 48 ASD children and 48 age-and gender-matched healthy children were recruited.Height,weight,body fat mass,total body water,protein,mineral and skeletal muscles mass was measured by Inbody J 30.Body mass index (BMI),percentage of body fat (PBF) and waist circumference (WC) was calculated and compared between the two groups.Results Total body water,protein,body fat mass,fat free mass,PBF,BMI in ASD group were significantly higher than normal group (P<0.05).According to BMI,PBF and WC,Proportion of obesity based on different indicators (BMI,PBF and WC) was significantly higher among children with ASD than normal children (P<0.05).Conclusion There are significant differences in body composition and nutritional status between ASD and normal children.Comprehensive health promotion including dietary advice should be carried out among ASD children.