What is ARFID?
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a recognised eating disorder that involves severe food avoidance or restriction due to sensory sensitivities, fear of negative consequences (such as choking or vomiting).
Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by body image concerns or a desire to lose weight. Instead, individuals experiencing ARFID have extreme anxiety or discomfort around certain foods, which can result in nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and difficulties in daily life.
An eating disorder is a clinically diagnosed condition and includes conditions such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, etc. It is based on the criteria in the Diagnostic Manual (DSM) 5 and requires medical, psychological and nutritional intervention.
It is different from disordered eating. Disordered eating refers to irregular or unhealthy eating behaviours that do not meet the full criteria. This may include restrictive eating, chronic dieting, fear of food, skipping meals or guilt around food.
If you are worried about yourself or someone you care for, we advise you to seek specialist support and guidance.
