What is ARFID and How to Identify it in Children
What is ARFID?
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterised by an ongoing refusal or avoidance of certain foods, leading to nutritional deficiencies, growth concerns, or social challenges. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by body image concerns or a desire to lose weight. Instead, it often stems from sensory sensitivities, fear of choking or vomiting, or a general lack of interest in eating.
Signs and Symptoms of ARFID
If you’re concerned about your child’s eating habits, here are some key signs that may indicate ARFID:
Limited Variety of Foods – Your child may only eat a small number of foods and strongly resist trying new ones, often due to taste, texture, or smell sensitivities.
Extreme Food Aversions – They may gag, feel nauseous, or become anxious when presented with certain foods.
Fear-Based Avoidance – A past experience with choking, vomiting, or other food-related trauma may cause them to avoid eating specific foods or entire food groups.
Lack of Interest in Eating – Some children with ARFID do not experience typical hunger cues and seem indifferent to meals.
Poor Growth or Weight Gain – Nutritional deficiencies can result in stunted growth, low energy levels, and delayed development.
Social Withdrawal Around Food – Children with ARFID may avoid meals with family or peers, struggle with school lunches, or feel overwhelmed at social gatherings involving food.
What to Do If You Suspect ARFID
If your child’s eating habits are interfering with their health, growth, or daily life, seeking professional guidance is crucial. A multidisciplinary approach—including a psychologist, paediatrician and dietitian—can help assess and manage ARFID. Strategies may include:
Emotional and Behavioral Therapy – Addressing anxiety or fear around food with the help of a mental health professional.
Sensory-Based Strategies – Working with an occupational therapist to address texture and sensory sensitivities.
Gradual Exposure Therapy – Helping children slowly become more comfortable with new foods in a non-threatening way.
Nutritional Support – Ensuring adequate nutrient intake through balanced meals, fortified foods, or supplements if needed.
Encouraging Positive Mealtime Experiences
While professional support is essential, there are also ways to create a positive food environment at home:
Avoid pressure or force-feeding, which can increase anxiety.
Offer a predictable mealtime routine.
Encourage family meals where your child can observe others eating a variety of foods (if they are comfortable with participating in family meals)
Involve your child in meal preparation (if they are able to comfortably) to increase their comfort with different foods.
When to Seek Help
If your child’s eating habits go beyond picky eating and interfere with their nutrition, growth, or social well-being, ARFID may be a concern. Early identification and support can make a significant difference in helping your child develop a healthier relationship with food.