Eating habits and behaviors in children with Dravet syndrome: A case–control study

Abstract

This study evaluated food preferences and eating behaviors of individuals with Dravet syndrome. Patients diagnosed with Dravet syndrome were recruited, as well as a control group composed of siblings of patients with epilepsy (any form). The Food Preference Questionnaire and the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire were completed by caregivers along with two open-ended questions regarding eating challenges. Seventy-eight participants (45 with Dravet syndrome and 33 controls) were included. Compared to controls, mean scores for food preference were lower for fruits (p =.000099), meats and fish (p =.00094), and snacks (p =.000027) in Dravet syndrome. People with Dravet syndrome also had less em..