ARFID
ARFID or avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder relates to the avoidance of specific foods. This is not usually connected to fears around body weight, or negative self-image, but it is thought to derive from anxieties around food. This can sometimes cause nutritional deficiencies.
Definition, and signs of ARFID, and how you can obtain support for your child:
What is ARFID?
'ARFID' stands for Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It is an eating disorder that causes the sufferer to avoid certain foods and/ or limit how much they eat. ARFID doesn't mean being picky about food. It can cause difficult issues around eating and avoidance of many food types that the body requires for nutrition.
Signs and symptoms of ARFID
People with ARFID are less worried about their weight and appearance, and their eating issues are caused by other factors.
Signs and symptoms of ARFID include:
- Concern or anxiety while eating a certain food, e.g. choking
- Eating only a small variety of foods, or the same meals repeatedly
- Dislike of certain tastes and textures
- Inability to notice hunger
- Finding mealtimes difficult
- Taking a long time to eat
- Loss of interest in eating.
ARFID is more common in those with SEND. It can also co-exist with other eating disorders or mental illness, like anorexia or anxiety.
Getting help for ARFID
If you think your child might be suffering from ARFID, contact your GP. They can talk to your child about their difficulties around food and make a referral for them to see an eating disorder therapist.
If you require urgent support, contact BEAT.