JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and sensory processing differences frequently co‑occur with health challenges including eating disorders, sleep disturbances, and metabolic dysregulation. Emerging evidence suggests that these associations arise from shared neurobiological pathways involving atypical reward processing, interoceptive awareness, executive functioning, and stress‑responsive systems (Kinnaird et al.; Cortese). Altered neural circuitry in regions governing appetite regulation, circadian rhythm stability, and emotional processing may predispose individuals to disrupted eating patterns, insomnia, or irregular sleep–wake cycles (Richdale and Schreck). Additionally, behavioral traits common in neurodevelopmental conditions—such as sensory sensitivities, rigid routines, impulsivity, or difficulties with emotional regulation—can amplify vulnerability to disordered eating or chronic sleep problems (Karjalainen et al.). Environmental stressors, including social exclusion, systemic barriers, and chronic uncertainty, further interact with neurobiological differences to intensify these health risks (Matson and Goldin). Understanding these interconnected mechanisms underscores the importance of integrated, multidisciplinary approaches that address both neurodevelopmental profiles and co‑occurring health concerns, ultimately supporting more precise interventions and improved long‑term outcomes.