What is ARFID? A St. Louis Dietitian Explains This Misunderstood Eating Disorder

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a rare eating disorder that goes beyond picky eating. It is defined as refraining from or limiting food intake to the point of causing nutritional deprivation, weight loss, or failure to gain weight in children, and affecting one’s functioning in daily activities.

How does ARFID affect families?

Eating Disorders Awareness Week, 2024, sought out stories from families with children struggling with ARFID, One mom wrote, “As a parent, you want the best for your child, watch them grow and develop. When your child stops eating because of ARFID, it’s devastating for the child and family. What makes an extremely difficult situation worse, are the judgements and misconceptions that others have about your child and you.”

ARFID can have profound effects on an entire family, changing the way families eat and socialize. It can make parties, school events, family meals, and eating out incredibly stressful.

What causes ARFID?

This is not like the other eating disorders that are associated with body image; instead, ARFID has its roots in sensory issues, fear of choking or vomiting, or simply lack of interest in food.

Children, teens, and adults with ARFID may require special diets due to their limited food intake and, therefore, need medical help. A treatment team includes a child’s pediatrician or primary care physician, therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist, and a dietitian nutritionist who specializes in eating disorder care.

ARFID Treatment with a Dietitian Nutritionist:

An ED dietitian can help your child identify safe new foods to incorporate into their diet, increase their nutrient intake, and work through the issues that cause food phobia. Recovery from ARFID is possible with the right support and treatment team.

If you or a loved one is suffering from severe food phobia, seek help from a professional who understands ARFID. At Branz Nutrition, we provide outpatient medical nutrition therapy and are here to assist you with your concerns with gentle and personal counseling.

Interested in finding out more? Get in touch with us now.