ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder)
This disorder can result in significant weight loss or failure to gain weight in childhood, followed by nutritional deficiencies that can cause health problems. Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, often shortened to ARFID, replaced the previous diagnosis of “feeding disorder of infancy or early childhood.” because ARFID occurs predominantly, but not ‘exclusively’, in infants or children.
This disorder is characterized by not being able to meet the minimum daily nutrition requirements because of not having an interest in eating ; avoiding food because they are turned off by the smell, taste, texture, or color of food; or being concerned about the consequences of eating, such as fear of choking.
They don't have anorexia, bulimia, or other medical problems that would explain their eating behaviors. In this disorder, food is not avoided because of fear of gaining weight.
ARFID Symptoms
A voiding food based on its sensory characteristics, or concern about aversive consequences of eating, and is not better explained by a lack of available food or an associated culturally sanctioned practice.
Presence of a conditioned negative reaction associated with food intake such as choking or repeated vomiting. Continuous failure to meet proper nutritional and energy needs, followed by episodes of weight loss, nutritional deficiency, and/or marked interference with psychosocial functioning
The behavior is described as restrictive, selective, finicky, or perseverant eating
Individuals with ARFID are not afraid of gaining weight and they don't have a poor body image.
Causes of ARFID
Trauma (triggering events such as choking or vomiting), GERD, or it can be psychological too.
And some of the reasons are still unknown.
Side Effects of ARFID
ARFID leads to problems from poor nutrition and it can be fatal.
Some problems include, not getting enough vitamins, minerals, and protein, need for nutrition supplements, poor growth, and delayed puberty.
These can cause dizziness and fainting due to low blood pressure, a slow pulse, dehydration, weakened bones (osteoporosis) and muscles, stopped menstrual periods (amenorrhea)
How to Treat ARFID
It can be treated by a team that includes a doctor, a registered dietitian, and a therapist who specializes in eating disorders. Treatment shall include nutrition counseling, medical care, and feeding therapy.
Increasing the variety of foods eaten is also one of the ways to tackle this.
