Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by an extreme restriction of food intake, not due to concerns about weight or body image, but rather due to a lack of interest in food, sensory sensitivities, or fear of negative reactions like choking or vomiting. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID does not typically involve body dysmorphia. Instead, people with ARFID often have a limited range of “safe” foods they feel comfortable eating, which can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.

The effects of avoidant restrictive food intake disorder are serious, impacting both physical health and daily life. ARFID can result in malnutrition, fatigue, growth problems in children, and weakened immune function due to limited nutrient intake. Socially, ARFID can be isolating, as people with this disorder may avoid eating in social situations or struggle with anxiety surrounding food-related events.

Understanding avoidant restrictive food intake disorder can help people recognize this often-misunderstood disorder and seek help. ARFID treatment typically includes nutritional support and therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy, to address food-related fears and gradually expand one’s diet. Through treatment, individuals with ARFID can work toward a healthier relationship with food and improve their overall quality of life.