Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is often a misunderstood feeding disorder, even though many parents are facing signs and symptoms of ARFID with their children. ARFID is a persistent disturbance in eating that leads to weight loss or growth disturbances, nutrient deficiencies, dependence on supplements, and impaired psychosocial functioning. Its hallmark characteristic is a phobia of food.
7 Things You Didn’t Know About ARFID
1. ARFID is not just picky eating.
ARFID is often mistakenly dismissed as extreme picky eating. While both involve selective eating patterns, ARFID is a clinically diagnosed feeding disorder characterized by a phobia of food, resulting in a very limited food repertoire that can significantly impact the individual’s physical and psychological well-being.
2. ARFID is rooted in anxiety and fear.
Unlike typical picky eaters, individuals with ARFID experience anxiety and fear surrounding specific foods or food groups. This anxiety can stem from various factors, including sensory sensitivities, past traumatic experiences, or an aversion to certain textures, smells or tastes.
3. ARFID can have serious consequences.
Due to the severely limited variety of foods consumed, ARFID can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies. Individuals with ARFID often struggle to meet their daily nutritional requirements, potentially leading to insufficient intake of essential vitamins, minerals and other crucial nutrients.
ARFID can also have profound social consequences, often leading to social isolation and feelings of exclusion. Individuals with ARFID may encounter challenges in social settings, such as family gatherings or school events, where their restricted food preferences can make participation difficult.
4. ARFID is often misunderstood.
There are many misconceptions surrounding ARFID. It’s often dismissed as extreme picky eating, but there is a psychological component that must be addressed beyond preference. Another common misunderstanding is the perception that individuals with ARFID can simply overcome their aversions with willpower. But, in reality, ARFID is rooted in complex psychological factors, making it challenging for individuals to expand their repertoire without appropriate support and intervention.
5. ARFID can go with you into your teens and adulthood.
ARFID can persist into teen- and adulthood, presenting with ongoing challenges depending on the individual’s current stage of life. The individual will continue to experience anxiety and sensitivities around food, impacting their dietary choices and overall quality of life.
In teens, ARFID may impact developmental processes, such as physical growth, cognitive development and social interactions. It can contribute to difficulties in school or social situations, as peer interactions often involve shared meals or gatherings centered around food. Additionally, teenagers with ARFID may face increased challenges in gaining independence and autonomy in their food choices, potentially affecting their overall well-being.
In adults, ARFID can affect the individual’s daily functioning. The impact may extend to relationships, work and mental health. Adults with ARFID may face unique challenges related to societal expectations around shared meals, dating and workplace events.
6. ARFID is often associated with other diagnoses like OCD, anxiety disorder or ASD.
ARFID is frequently associated with diagnoses like OCD, anxiety disorder or ASD. There are many overlapping features, such as sensory sensitivities, rigid thought patterns and heightened anxiety.
7. You need to find a provider trained specifically to work with ARFID to get the best results.
Given the unique nature of ARFID, it’s important to find a provider who is trained specifically to work with ARFID to get the best results. The provider must be able to understand the individual’s sensory sensitivities, anxiety and other associated factors to ensure individualized and effective support.
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Kelly is a Speech Language Pathologist who specializes in providing therapy for people with feeding challenges. She prides herself on individualizing therapy sessions so that you meet your goals. Kelly has a center dedicated to helping you located right here in Lake Nona! Contact Kelly to get your questions answered and to take the first step toward your journey. You can contact Kelly at kelly@food4thoughttherapy.com or visit https://food4thoughttherapy.com/contact/ to book your free consultation.Find her on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about Kelly’s services and hypnosis.
