Eating should be a natural and enjoyable part of life, but for people with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), food can feel overwhelming, frightening or unappealing. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not related to body image concerns or a desire to lose weight. Instead, it involves avoiding or restricting food intake due to sensory sensitivities, fear-based aversions or a lack of interest in eating.

At Seeds of Hope, we understand that ARFID is a serious condition that can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss and emotional distress. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s eating habits or an adult struggling with food restrictions, understanding ARFID is the first step toward getting the right support.

What is ARFID?

ARFID is an eating disorder that causes extreme food avoidance or restriction, leading to poor nutrition, weight changes and difficulty eating in social situations. Unlike other eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia, ARFID is not driven by concerns about weight or body shape. Instead, individuals with ARFID may:

  • Avoid foods due to texture, taste, smell or appearance (sensory-based avoidance)
  • Fear eating because of past experiences such as choking, vomiting or allergic reactions (trauma-related avoidance)
  • Have no appetite or interest in eating, leading to low energy and weight loss

ARFID can have serious health consequences, especially when left untreated, and affects people of all ages.

Who Can Develop ARFID?

ARFID can affect individuals of any age: children, teens and adults. While it often starts in childhood, many people continue struggling with restrictive eating patterns into adulthood. ARFID is more common in:

  • Children and teens – Many children with extreme picky eating may develop ARFID if their eating habits lead to health risks.
  • Adults – Some individuals continue restrictive eating behaviors from childhood, while others develop ARFID due to medical conditions or trauma.
  • People with autism or ADHD – Sensory sensitivities and rigid eating patterns are more common in those with autism spectrum disorder or ADHD.
  • Individuals with anxiety disorders – ARFID is often linked to high levels of anxiety, especially around food.

Unlike normal picky eating, ARFID can severely impact health, daily life and emotional well-being.

Picky Eating vs. ARFID: What’s the Difference?

It’s common for young children to be picky eaters, but most outgrow it over time. However, ARFID is much more than picky eating.

Picky Eating:

  • Prefers certain foods but will still eat a variety
  • Will try new foods with encouragement
  • Does not experience anxiety or distress around food
  • Does not have significant weight loss or health problems

ARFID:

  • Avoids entire food groups or textures
  • Refuses to try new foods, even with encouragement
  • Experiences fear, anxiety or distress about eating
  • May need nutritional supplements or medical intervention due to poor health

If picky eating leads to malnutrition, social withdrawal or emotional distress, it could be ARFID rather than a phase.

Types of ARFID

There are different types of ARFID, each with unique challenges:

  • Sensory-based ARFID – Avoidance of foods due to extreme sensitivity to textures, smells or tastes; certain foods may feel overwhelming or “wrong”
  • Fear-based ARFID – Restriction due to past traumatic experiences with food, such as choking, gagging or severe vomiting
  • Low appetite ARFID – A general lack of interest in food, feeling full quickly or forgetting to eat

Since ARFID affects people in different ways, a personalized approach is needed to support recovery.

Signs and Symptoms of ARFID

Behavioral Signs:

  • Avoiding entire food groups or textures
  • Eating extremely slow or needing food prepared a specific way
  • High anxiety or distress around meals
  • Difficulty eating in social settings
  • Extreme picky eating that does not improve with age

Physical Symptoms:

  • Weight loss or failure to grow in children and adolescents
  • Fatigue, dizziness and weakness due to lack of proper nutrition
  • Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, constipation or acid reflux
  • Brittle nails, hair loss and dry skin due to vitamin deficiencies

Health Consequences of ARFID

When left untreated, ARFID can cause severe health issues, including:

  • Malnutrition – A lack of essential vitamins and minerals weakens the immune system, affects brain function and leads to fatigue and concentration issues.
  • Growth delays – Children with ARFID may fail to reach normal growth milestones or experience delayed puberty.
  • Bone weakness – Low calcium and vitamin D intake can lead to osteoporosis and higher risk of fractures.
  • Heart problems – Severe restriction can cause low blood pressure, slow heart rate and muscle weakness.
  • Digestive problems – Lack of fiber and variety in the diet can cause constipation, acid reflux and stomach discomfort.
  • Social withdrawal – Many people with ARFID avoid meals with family and friends, leading to isolation, anxiety and depression.

ARFID is not just a phase or a personal choice—it is a serious disorder that requires understanding and proper care.

You’re Not Alone

Struggling with ARFID can feel isolating, but help is available. At Seeds of Hope, we provide education and support to help individuals and families understand ARFID and its impact.

If you or a loved one is struggling with food avoidance or restriction, reach out to learn more about ARFID and available support options.