For some adults, this goes beyond “just picky eating” and becomes something called ARFID, which stands for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. ARFID is a type of eating disorder that makes it very difficult for people to eat a variety of foods – usually because of sensory issues, lack of interest in foods or fears related to eating (like vomiting or choking). Let’s learn more about ARFID, how to tell if you might have it, and some ways people treat it. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about treating ARFID in adults.
What Is ARFID?
ARFID makes a person very selective about the foods they eat, and it’s not usually due to body image concerns or anxiety. People with ARFID often have a limited range of foods they feel comfortable eating. They might avoid foods because they don’t like the texture, smell, or taste. Other times, they worry about choking, gagging, or feeling sick after eating. ARFID is different from being a selective eater because it can interfere with a person’s health, work, or social life. For example, someone with ARFID might find it difficult to go out to eat with friends. Or avoid work or school gatherings where food is central.
5 Signs You Might Have ARFID
Adults with ARFID often notice certain patterns or feelings around food. Here are some signs:
- Limited Variety: You eat a small range of “safe” foods and find it hard to try new ones. You’d rather not eat than try food that you don’t like.
- Anxiety Around Food: Certain foods cause a lot of stress or worry.
- Physical Reactions: Thinking about or eating certain foods makes you feel like you might gag or throw up.
- Lack of Interest: You often don’t feel hungry or interested in food, even if they haven’t eaten in a while.
- Avoidance Due to Sensory Issues: Smells, textures, or appearances of foods can be overwhelming.
If these sound familiar, it could be worth talking to a dietitian about ARFID. You could also take our ARFID quiz to learn more about whether or not you might be struggling with ARFID. While our quiz isn’t used for diagnostic purposes,
Why Do Adults Get ARFID?
ARFID can affect anyone, but it usually starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood. It’s just not true that adults can’t have ARFID! You still deserve help and support if this is something that you struggle with.
Some adults with ARFID might have sensory processing issues, where their brains process sensory information in a unique way, making certain food textures or smells unpleasant. Others might have experienced a negative event with food, like choking or getting sick, and they now avoid foods that remind them of that event. Whether or not we know the “cause” of ARFID symptoms, support is still possible and important.
How Is ARFID Treated?
The good news is that there are ways to help manage ARFID. Treatment often involves working with therapists and dietitians who understand how ARFID works. Here are some common treatment techniques:
Exposure Therapy
This approach involves slowly introducing new foods in small, manageable ways. A person might start by just smelling a new food, then touching it, and eventually taking a small bite when they feel ready. The goal is to make the food feel less scary over time.
Sensory-Based Therapy
Eating disorder dietitians and an ARFID specialized dietitian can help create a meal plan that provides all the nutrients needed. Because people with ARFID lack interest in food, it can be difficult to eat enough. Lacking in nutrition can actually cause more anxiety around food. So, working with a dietitian to not only do food exposures but to also discuss ways to assure you are getting enough nutrition can be helpful.
Nutrition Counseling
For people who are sensitive to textures, smells, or sounds of food, sensory-based therapy can help. It’s a type of therapy that works on becoming more comfortable with different sensory experiences.
Support Groups
Talking to others who also experience ARFID can be very helpful. Support groups allow people to share their experiences and find encouragement from those who understand their struggles.
Can Adults with ARFID Find Recovery?
Yes! While it might take time, many people with ARFID do improve with treatment. Small steps, like trying new foods slowly and working with supportive professionals, can make a big difference. The journey may feel challenging at times, but every small victory can lead to a healthier and happier relationship with food.
Final Thoughts on Treating ARFID in Adults
Thank you for reading our resource on treating ARFID in adults. There is hope! Contact us today so see how we can help you on your path to recovery.
The Team at Courage to Nourish understands that eating challenges aren’t always about diet and exercise – sometimes, they’re about finding courage to face fears around food. Remember, there’s no need to tackle ARFID alone.
Alex is the founder and owner of Courage to Nourish. She opened Courage to Nourish to create a practice that aligns with her values in eating disorder recovery. She is a Certified Eating Disorder Dietitian and Approved Supervisor through iaedp. Alex loves working with children, high school and college students as well as athletes. Additionally, Alex is a proud anti-diet dietitian and works with her clients through a Health At Every Size © and intuitive eating framework. Read more about Alex here.
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