Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
An eating disorder involving avoidance or restriction of food intake not driven by body image concerns, leading to nutritional or functional problems.
Overview
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) involves persistent failure to meet nutritional needs due to avoidance or restriction of food intake, without the body image disturbance seen in anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs can include significant weight loss or failure to grow as expected, nutritional deficiency, dependence on supplements, or marked interference with daily functioning due to limited food intake. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Sensory sensitivities, low interest in eating, and fear of aversive consequences such as choking are each associated with ARFID.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Specialized behavioral and family-based approaches may help expand food variety and address underlying fears or sensitivities.
Living With Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Working with a specialized team, including medical and nutrition professionals, is often important given potential nutritional impact.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Many children and adults improve with targeted treatment, particularly when addressed early.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.