If you or a loved one is struggling with ARFID, we’re here to help. This page will provide helpful information, treatment options and guidance on what to do next.
What Is ARFID?
Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), often thought of as “extreme picky eating,” is characterized by disturbances related to eating or feeding which may result in significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies or interference with day-to-day life. Individuals with ARFID typically avoid food due to sensory characteristics, fear-based experiences (fear of choking, vomiting, gagging, swallowing) and low interest in eating. Affecting all races and genders, individuals with ARFID commonly experience co-occurring psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders (especially OCD and trauma-related disorders) and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Emotional Characteristics of ARFID
Individuals with ARFID often struggle with the fear of food and/or the consequences of consuming it. They often have very limited foods they are willing to consume and, therefore, are at risk for malnutrition due to a lack of variety in nutrient intake. Those with ARFID differ from individuals with other eating disorders (such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, or Binge Eating Disorder) as they do not struggle with issues around body image.
ARFID Warning Signs
ARFID is a serious eating disorder which can be fatal. Its effects can have serious medical consequences, including malnutrition, chemical imbalance and an overall loss of energy and vitality.
Key signs you or someone you know may be struggling with ARFID include:
- Significant weight loss
- Fatigue that can be persistent
- Anxiety around food
- Nutritional deficiencies, including in vitamins and minerals
- Restricting the types or amounts of food consumed
- Social withdrawal
- Growth delays in children and adolescents
- Limited variety of preferred foods that narrows over time
- Digestive issues, including stomach cramps, constipation or other GI problems
- Lack of appetite or interest in food
- Constant fear of choking or vomiting
- Issues with certain food textures
Is it Really an Eating Disorder?
We live in a culture with rigid ideals about food, weight and size, so it can be difficult to recognize when your thoughts and behaviors have become dangerous. Take a quiz and find out.
ARFID Treatment & Levels of Care
Normalizing eating behaviors in individuals with any eating disorder is an essential step in treatment. ARFID treatment must start with a thorough understanding of the root cause of food avoidance. Exposure therapy is used to address sensory aversions and fear-based avoidances.
The first step is determining the best treatment environment and philosophy for your needs, often with the help of a care team. Here is an overview of the most common types of treatment for ARFID.
Residential Treatment
Continuous in-person treatment. Often the most structured and intensive level of care.
Day Treatment
Comprehensive and consistent outpatient care with daily, in-person meetings.
Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
Intensive structure and treatment plans with consistent meetings several days per week.
Outpatient Services
Weekly structure and steady support, but provided at a slower pace than IOP.
Virtual Treatment
The same structured, intensive care of in-person, delivered virtually.
How to Help Someone with ARFID
Individuals with eating disorders deserve and require professional evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. Parents, family or friends—in collaboration with a mental health professional—can play an active and essential role in restoring healthy eating.
Reach out to a Renfrew Program Information Specialist to schedule a FREE assessment or to learn more about our services.
ARFID FAQ
What is ARFID?
ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, is an eating disorder characterized by a persistent failure to meet appropriate nutritional and/or energy needs due to an avoidance of certain foods or eating behaviors. The restriction of food negatively impacts mental, physical, and social wellbeing. In some cases, supplements or enteral feeding becomes necessary.
How common is ARFID?
ARFID is relatively common, particularly among children and adolescents. It affects all genders, shapes, and sizes and can be found across various age groups, though it’s more frequently diagnosed in younger individuals.
Are there specific types of ARFID?
Yes, ARFID can be categorized into three types: sensory-based avoidance (dislike of certain textures, smells, or tastes), fear-based avoidance (fear of choking, vomiting, or allergic reactions), and low appetite or disinterest in food.
What causes ARFID?
The causes of ARFID are multifactorial, including sensory sensitivities, negative past experiences with food (such as choking), anxiety, and other psychological factors. Genetic and environmental influences also play a role.
What are the most common signs for ARFID?
The signs and symptoms of ARFID can vary significantly between people and will depend on the subtype. Common signs include significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, limited variety of foods eaten, prolonged mealtimes, lack of interest in food, anxiety around eating, and avoidance of social situations involving food. Unlike other restrictive eating disorders, ARFID symptoms are not rooted in body dissatisfaction, body dysmorphia or a desire to lose weight.
How do I know if I need treatment for ARFID?
If restrictive eating interferes with daily functioning and leads to significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, growth delays, and emotional distress, , it’s important to seek professional help. Early intervention can improve outcomes and support recovery.
What should I do if I’m curious about treatment?
A confidential phone conversation with one of our Program Information Specialists is the best way to learn more about our services, answer your questions and address your concerns: Call 1-800-RENFREW (736-3739).
What forms of treatment are most effective for ARFID?
ARFID is a complex psychiatric disorder that rarely travels alone. An effective treatment approach will ideally include a multidisciplinary team that works together to target multiple factors, including the eating disorder symptoms, nutritional deficiencies, medical complications, and any co-occurring mental health diagnoses. A comprehensive eating disorder assessment is recommended to identify your needs and choose the appropriate level of care.
What is Renfrew’s treatment approach for ARFID?
The Renfrew Center provides treatment for ARFID through a multidisciplinary team of therapists, dietitians, medical providers, and psychiatrists. The Renfrew Center Unified Treatment Model for Eating Disorders is a transdiagnostic, evidenced-based treatment approach used to treat ARFID by harnessing the healing power of relational connection and targeting the core mechanisms that maintain eating disorders and co-occurring emotional disorders.
What is the role of a treatment team in ARFID recovery?
The treatment team supports and collaborates with each client, assesses the severity of the eating disorder symptoms, and monitors the progress in the recovery process. They make recommendations and provide individualized treatment interventions to meet their client’s psychological, medical, and nutritional needs. Support systems and outpatient providers are often a part of the treatment team to promote sustainable change outside of the treatment setting.
What is the long-term outlook for someone with ARFID?
Early intervention and the appropriate level of care can make a significant difference in the long-term recovery of those with ARFID Due to the complex nature of the disorder, it will not likely resolve on its own or with time. Seeking out the appropriate level of care as soon as possible is recommended for best outcomes.
What can I do to support someone struggling?
We recommend that loved ones educate themselves on eating disorders and seek guidance from professionals when possible. It is important to note that eating disorders are not ‘fads’ or ‘phases’ and should not be ignored or dismissed. Family and friends should approach their loved one with compassion and concern and take steps to involve professionals as soon as possible.
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