ARFID
What is ARFID?
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), sometimes referred to as “selective eating disorder,” is a condition marked by extremely selective eating or food avoidance based on sensory properties, which leads to a failure to meet appropriate nutritional needs. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not connected to self-image but is instead driven by fear and anxiety surrounding food, particularly new foods or those with different sensory characteristics. ARFID is much more than picky eating—it significantly impacts nutritional intake, energy levels, and daily life.
Signs and Traits of ARFID
ARFID can be diagnosed at any age. Feeding experiences within infancy, toddlerhood, and early childhood can lead to progression of ARFID into later childhood, adolescence, and even adulthood. Children with ARFID often fall into one or more of the following categories:
Sensory-Based Avoidance:
Strong reactions to food taste, smell, texture, or appearance, leading to fear and anxiety about trying new foods.
Low Interest in Eating:
Limited appetite or disinterest in food, sometimes requiring support to recognize hunger and fullness cues.
Fear-Based Avoidance:
Anxiety over potential negative consequences of eating, such as choking, vomiting, or feeling sick.
A pediatrician or mental health professional outside of Hummingbird can provide an official diagnosis of ARFID. At Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies, our team of feeding therapists can guide families through the appropriate steps to take as well as treatment options.
Explore Related Therapies
Speak With a Therapist
How Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies Can Help
The primary goals of therapy include increasing the variety of foods eaten, achieving healthy eating patterns and a positive relationship with food, and learning ways to explore and eat new foods without fear. Our pediatric feeding therapists specialize in individualized treatment plans designed to make food exploration feel safe and supportive. Our approach for treating ARFID may include:
- Sensory Desensitization Activities: Helping children gradually adapt to different food textures, tastes, and smells in a safe environment.
- Emotional Support & Discussion: Providing space to openly address anxieties and fears surrounding food.
- Home-Based Meal Planning: Creating meal plans and strategies to support mealtime success at home.
- Parental & Family Education: Equipping families with knowledge and techniques to encourage positive food experiences.
- Gradual Food Exposure: Introducing new foods at a comfortable pace, reinforcing safe and positive experiences with eating.
Since ARFID is closely linked to anxiety and strong emotional responses to food, feeding therapy often also incorporates collaboration with pediatric counselors. This holistic approach ensures that both the physical and emotional aspects of ARFID are addressed. Additional referrals, such as to a nutritionist, dietitian, or occupational therapist, may be recommended based on your child’s specific needs.
Supporting Your Child’s ARFID Journey at Home
Parents play a crucial role in the day-to-day support of a child with ARFID. Here are some strategies that our feeding therapists recommend putting into practice at home:
- Encourage positive mealtime exploration with gentle reinforcement.
- Establish regular family meals to create a structured and comforting routine.
- Reduce pressure and maintain a calm, stress-free mealtime environment.
- Involve your child in food-related decisions, such as grocery shopping or meal preparation.
- Introduce new foods gradually and celebrate small victories.
- Implement coping strategies to help manage food-related anxiety.
- Be patient—progress takes time, and every step forward is part of the process.
Get the Right Support
If you believe your child may be struggling with ARFID, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies. We are here to support your family every step of the way and help your child create a healthier relationship with food.