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Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

What is ARFID?

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by a persistent failure to meet nutritional needs due to extreme food avoidance or restriction. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by concerns about body weight or shape. Instead, individuals with ARFID may avoid certain foods due to sensory sensitivities, fear of choking or vomiting, or a lack of interest in eating. ARFID can significantly disrupt daily life, leading to inadequate nutrition, weight loss, dependency on supplements, and challenges in social situations involving food. It is more common in children but can persist into adolescence and adulthood if left untreated.

Signs and Symptoms of ARFID

Common signs of ARFID include:

  • Limited variety in diet: Consuming only a narrow range of foods, often due to taste, texture, smell, or appearance.
  • Avoidance of entire food groups: Restricting specific categories of food (e.g., fruits, vegetables, or proteins).
  • Fears related to eating: Anxiety about choking, vomiting, or allergic reactions despite no medical basis for these fears.
  • Disgust related to food: Food aversion due to feelings of disgust or fear related to how food may taste.
  • Weight loss or poor growth: Especially in children, failure to meet growth expectations.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Leading to fatigue, weakened immunity, or other health concerns.
  • Interference with daily life: Avoiding social situations like family meals or events involving food.

Causes and Risk Factors for ARFID

The development of ARFID is complex and may be influenced by:

  • Sensory sensitivities: Discomfort with certain textures, tastes, or smells, often associated with conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • Trauma or negative experiences: A history of choking, vomiting, food allergy reactions, or gastrointestinal discomfort can lead to food aversions.
  • Underlying mental health conditions: Anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can contribute to restrictive eating behaviors.
  • Developmental factors: ARFID often emerges during childhood, but its impact can carry into adulthood if untreated.

ARFID Treatment at CEH

At CEH, we offer evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals struggling with ARFID. Our treatment approach is tailored to each person’s unique challenges and focuses on helping patients overcome food-related anxiety and improve their nutritional intake.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure Therapy

  • Gradual exposure to feared or avoided foods in a controlled, supportive environment.
  • Building tolerance for new textures, tastes, and food types.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Identifying and addressing negative thoughts and fears about eating.
  • Developing strategies to manage anxiety and reduce avoidance behaviors.

Parent-Based Interventions

  • Engaging parents in treatment to create and implement food challenges with the goal of expanding the child’s eating repertoire while improving mealtime environments.
  • Educating caregivers on strategies to encourage and reinforce positive eating behaviors.

Why Choose CEH for ARFID Treatment?

At CEH, we understand that ARFID is more than “picky eating.” It is a serious condition that can impact physical health, emotional well-being, and social functioning. Our team of experienced clinicians provides personalized care, combining behavioral therapies, nutritional guidance, and family support to help patients overcome ARFID and improve their quality of life.

Request Your Appointment

Take the first step toward better mental health. Whether in person or through telehealth, The Center for Emotional Health is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today with any questions and to schedule your appointment.