It is common for young children to be labeled as picky eaters, but when teens or adults start avoiding certain foods to the point that their health suffers, this may signal avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Unlike anorexia nervosa, which involves concerns around body image and weight, ARFID is primarily driven by a lack of interest in food or an aversion to specific textures, smells, or flavors. Though both ARFID and anorexia nervosa involve restricting food intake, the critical distinction is that ARFID does not stem from fears related to body weight or shape.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), ARFID is diagnosed when a persistent eating or feeding disturbance leads to inadequate nutrition or energy intake and is associated with one or more of the following:
Notably, a lack of food or cultural practices does not better explain ARFID. It also differs from other eating disorders — such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa — because individuals with ARFID do not experience concerns about body weight or shape.
Additionally, ARFID cannot be attributed solely to another medical condition or mental disorder. If an eating disturbance occurs alongside another condition, the severity of the ARFID symptoms must exceed what would typically be expected and require focused clinical attention.
In this video, Kate Fisch, LCSW, Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s AVP of Clinical Services, explains ARFID and how Magnolia Creek provides comprehensive, individualized treatment for those struggling with this eating disorder.
A subtler sign is when a picky eater becomes even more selective over time. While many young people are naturally selective, a noticeable worsening of this behavior may indicate a deeper issue — especially if it starts to affect their health. Some adults may attempt to compensate for nutritional deficiencies by taking vitamins, but there is no substitute for a well-balanced diet.
If you recognize these signs, it is time to seek professional ARFID treatment to address the underlying issues and restore nutritional health.
As ARFID progresses, the health consequences can become more severe. Without proper treatment, individuals may experience:
At Magnolia Creek, our highly skilled and experienced clinicians collaborate with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Clients are actively involved in their recovery, setting realistic treatment goals that target the underlying causes of their disorder. This personalized approach ensures that each individual receives the comprehensive care they need to overcome ARFID and achieve long-term wellness.
To give each client the best chance at ARFID recovery, our individualized treatment plans incorporate a range of evidence-based treatment methods designed to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. These may include:
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