25 | Picky Eating, Gut Health & Autism Nutrition Support | Brittyn Coleman

Mealtimes can feel exhausting when your child only accepts a small handful of foods and every attempt to introduce something new turns into stress. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene talks with registered dietitian Brittyn Coleman about picky eating, nutrition, gut health, and practical ways to support autistic children with limited food choices. Brittyn shares how her personal experience growing up with a brother on the spectrum shaped her work and why she now helps families expand safe foods in a way that respects sensory needs and builds confidence over time. The conversation covers where to start when a child only eats a few preferred foods, how to create a food sensory profile, why food exposure matters, and how small changes can make a big difference. Brittyn also explains how nutritional deficiencies can affect appetite, constipation, and food preferences, along with why supplements may help fill gaps while families work on food expansion. This episode offers realistic, parent-friendly guidance for families who want support without pressure, shame, or one-size-fits-all advice. Topics Covered Where to start when a child only eats a few foods How to create a food sensory profile Food chaining and small changes that feel safer Why exposure to foods matters, even without pressure to eat Supplements and when they can help fill nutrition gaps Constipation, hydration, fiber, and gut health support Food jagging and how to reduce burnout on favorite foods Cups, drinks, oral motor concerns, and sensory preferences How nutrient deficiencies can affect appetite and food behavior Memorable Quote "Small changes make a difference." About the Guest Brittyn Coleman is a registered dietitian, autism nutrition expert, and creator of the Autism Nutrition Library. Through her practice, Autism Dietitian, she helps families support picky eaters, improve nutrition, and better understand the sensory and medical factors that can influence feeding. She also offers programs, courses, and educational resources for both families and practitioners. Resources Mentioned AutismDietitian.com Autism Nutrition Library Healthy Poops Academy Nourishing Autism podcast Brittyn Coleman on Instagram Brittyn Coleman on Facebook About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Resources: Instagram: instagram.com/autismdietitian Podcast: autismdietitian.com/podcast