Exploring Virtual Reality As an Intervention for Food Selectivity: a Clinical Trial

Food selectivity is a common challenge among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with significant impacts on their nutrition and well-being. The main purpose of this study is to promote children's active participation in mealtime routines and encourage experimentation with new foods through an approach that emphasizes joy and serenity during mealtimes. The study will involve children with ASD between the ages of 4 and 10 years, of both sexes. Food selectivity will be assessed through interviews with parents and the use of specially created cards. The protocol will include 45-minute sessions, twice a week, for a total of 48 sessions. The children will wear an Oculus headset and be exposed to the foods through this virtual reality tool, enhancing their engagement and willingness to try new foods in a fun and immersive way.

NCT Number	NCT06656585
Lead Sponsor	Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica Collaborators: Fondazione di Comunità Messina onlus
Conditions	Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder
Enrollment	30 participants
Start Date	2024-09-01
Primary Completion	2025-05-31 (estimated)
Study Completion	2025-07-17 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2024-10-24