Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by a limited range of food preferences and avoidance of certain foods or food groups, textures, smells, or appearances. Unlike other eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, ARFID is not primarily driven by concerns about weight or body image. Instead, it is characterized by the avoidance of certain foods based on sensory characteristics or other factors.
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• Limited Food Intake: Individuals with ARFID have a restricted and limited range of foods they are willing to eat. This restriction is not due to cultural norms, religious practices, or food availability.
• Sensory Sensitivities: ARFID is often associated with sensory sensitivities, such as aversions to certain textures, tastes, or smells of food. This can make it challenging for individuals to consume a variety of foods.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Due to the limited variety of foods consumed, individuals with ARFID may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies. This can lead to various health problems, including weight loss, stunted growth (in children), and other medical complications.
• Psychological Impact: ARFID can have a significant psychological impact, leading to anxiety or distress related to eating. It may also affect social functioning, as individuals with ARFID may avoid social situations that involve food.
• Onset and Development: ARFID can develop in childhood, and its onset is often associated with early feeding difficulties. However, it can also persist into adolescence and adulthood. The disorder may be associated with factors such as sensory processing issues, anxiety, or trauma.
• Treatment: Treatment for ARFID typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including nutritional counseling, exposure therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). The goal is to expand the range of acceptable foods and address any nutritional deficiencies. In severe cases, medical monitoring and intervention may be necessary.
• Different from Picky Eating: While many children go through phases of picky eating, ARFID is more severe and can have significant consequences for physical and mental health. It goes beyond normal childhood food preferences.