11/15/2025
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) goes far beyond picky eating. It can involve strong sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or little interest in eating at all. While it doesn’t stem from body-image concerns, ARFID can still cause malnutrition, anxiety, and social isolation.
According to Scientific American, awareness and diagnosis of are increasing, especially among children and teens. Experts say this rise reflects a deeper understanding of how eating challenges can develop and the need for earlier intervention.
Treatment often involves a combination of therapy, nutrition support, and gradual exposure to feared or avoided foods. With specialized care, many people see meaningful improvements in both health and quality of life.
If eating feels overwhelming, or if you notice growing anxiety around food, please know you’re not alone and help is available. Reaching out to a professional, like EDCare, who understands ARFID can be the first step toward healing.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, or ARFID, can cause malnutrition and weight loss in children and adults even when body image is not a factor