ARFID

Overcome Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Rediscover Joyful Eating

Are you or a loved one struggling with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)? Do certain foods or textures trigger anxiety, leading to a severely limited diet and potential nutritional deficiencies? At Nutrition Braved, we are here to provide compassionate support and evidence-based guidance to help you or your loved one overcome this disorder and cultivate a positive relationship with food.

Understanding ARFID:

ARFID is a complex eating disorder characterized by an extreme avoidance or restriction of certain foods or entire food groups. Individuals with the disorder may have an intense fear of choking, vomiting, or adverse reactions to specific tastes, textures, colors, or smells. This disorder can lead to severe limitations in dietary choices, resulting in inadequate nutritional intake and potential health consequences.

What are signs and behaviors of ARFID?

Severe avoidance or refusal of certain foods, resulting in a limited range of accepted foods.
Fear or anxiety around trying new foods or textures.
Difficulty meeting nutritional needs, leading to weight loss, malnutrition, or growth issues (especially in children).
Preoccupation with food-related concerns and rituals, such as excessive chewing or meticulous food preparation.
Avoidance of social situations involving food or eating with others.
Sensory sensitivity to specific food textures, smells, or tastes.

What are causes of ARFID?

Sensory Sensitivity: Heightened sensory responses to tastes, textures, or smells of food may trigger ARFID behaviors.
Traumatic Food Experience: A previous negative or traumatic experience with food, such as choking or vomiting, can lead to food aversions.
Autism Spectrum Disorder or Developmental Disabilities: ARFID can coexist with these conditions and exacerbate sensory issues.
Anxiety and Avoidance: Anxiety disorders can contribute to avoidance of certain foods and textures.
Early Feeding Difficulties: In children, early feeding difficulties and challenges may lead to ARFID behaviors.

What are impacts of ARFID?

Nutritional Deficiencies: The limited diet in ARFID may lead to nutrient deficiencies and health issues.
Impaired Growth and Development: In children and adolescents, ARFID can hinder growth and development due to inadequate nutrition.
Social Isolation: Avoidance of food-related events and eating with others can lead to social isolation and impact relationships.
Anxiety and Emotional Distress: ARFID may lead to increased anxiety and distress related to food and eating experiences.

Rediscover Joyful Eating Today

You or your loved one deserve to experience joy and pleasure in eating without fear or limitations. At Nutrition Braved, our experienced professionals are committed to supporting you on your journey to overcoming ARFID. Through a compassionate and individualized approach, we can help you expand your food choices, address anxiety triggers, and develop a healthier and more nourishing relationship with food.

To learn more about our services for overcoming this disorder and to schedule a consultation, contact us today. Together, we can empower you to rediscover the joy of eating and promote your overall health and well-being.

What Dietitians Offer

Free 15 Minute Consultation

Give us a call to determine if we are a good fit for you. We can discuss services and answer any questions you may have. You can call at 630-474-5321 or submit your information and we’ll reach out to you shortly.