ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) is a recognised Eating Disorder noted in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). This was previously known as SED (Selective Eating Disorder).
ARFID is an Eating Disorder where a person is unable to explore foods outside of their ‘safe’ group of foods without triggering a negative emotional reaction or displaying unwarranted disinterest. ARFID is predominately a Food Phobia and is not related to negative body image.
ARFID is not fussy eating. Fussy eating is normal for young children, and they usually grow out of this phase.
This inability to eat a wider range of foods can lead to health concerns, malnutrition, and creates stress and tension for the individual and family wherever food is involved (dinner time, school, camps, vacations, parties, sleepovers, restaurants, etc.)
ARFID behaviours can be present in young children, teenagers and adults. The behaviour usually starts from a young age, but it can also be triggered later in life.
ARFID rarely rectifies itself without professional intervention and assistance.
The good news is that ARFID responds positively to specific Therapy Protocols.
Specialist ARFID Therapy has a proven track record of helping thousands of clients let go of their old unwanted and restrictive behaviours around food.
