Myths About ARFID
ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, is an eating disorder where individuals avoid specific foods due to texture, smell, or taste, resulting in a lack of proper nutrients. Previously known as a selective eating disorder, ARFID had evolved into a new diagnosis found in the DSM-5-TR. However, misconceptions and myths surrounding ARFID make this eating disorder more difficult to treat and understand.
What Is ARFID?
ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, is an eating disorder commonly associated with picky eating. ARFID occurs when individuals have aversions to specific foods and avoid eating them entirely. ARFID has become associated with autism spectrum disorder, drawing concern towards these individuals who are not receiving the proper amount of nutrients. Some common symptoms of ARFID include weight loss, food restrictions, fears of choking, sleep problems, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and more (National Eating Disorders Association, 2018). Despite the array of information about ARFID, there are a variety of myths surrounding this eating disorder that cause misconceptions and false beliefs.
Myth #1: ARFID is Just Picky Eating.
This myth is false because picky eating is a phase children go through when they’re getting introduced to new foods. However, with ARFID, food aversion persists, developing into restricting specific foods and developing a fear of choking or vomiting. “With ARFID, a person avoids food to the point that he or she is unable to grow portly, maintain a healthy weight, or carry out basic bodily functions” (The Recovery Village, 2022). Anxiety surrounding certain foods can become problematic, resulting in possible avoidance of places that serve food.
Myth #2: ARFID is Only a Childhood Disorder.
This myth is false because ARFID occurs not only in children but with adolescents and adults. ARFID was previously known as a feeding disorder of infancy and early childhood, but it is still common in children. “ARFID in adults may be a result of untreated childhood feeding issues or a lengthy history of aversion to sensory aspects of food, such as taste, texture, or smell” (The Recovery Village, 2022). Because we know more about ARFID and how the disorder manifests, there are better treatment options for those who are struggling with this disorder.
Myth #3: People Can Outgrow ARFID.
This myth is false because eating disorders are not something that people can move on from in a flash. ARFID can be treated like any other eating disorder and requires the same attention. “One study found that individuals in treatment for ARFID were fearful of vomiting or choking when eating, and they demonstrated high rates of anxiety, learning, and developmental disorders” (The Recovery Village, 2022). Another myth states that no treatment is available for ARFID. This statement is untrue because many eating disorders organizations and treatment centers recognize ARFID, just like other common eating disorders that individuals struggle with. If you feel that you, or someone you know, are facing ARFID, the best first step would be to consult with your mental health professional to discuss treatment options.
BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™ knows it can feel scary to take the first step in reaching out for support. We offer a bi-monthly free virtual support group intended for those contemplating eating disorder support or for loved ones seeking help. If you are struggling with ARFID or symptoms of another eating disorder, click here to RSVP for our next support group and here to speak with our admissions team and begin your road to recovery today.
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References
National Eating Disorders Association. (2018, February 22). Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/arfid
Digital, A. (2022). ARFID Myths. The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab. https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/avoidant-restrictive-food-intake-disorder/arfid-myths/
This post was written by BALANCE Blog Contributor, Regina Colie (she/her).
Regina Colie is currently pursuing her Masters in General Psychology at The New School For Social Research. She is interested in working with women who have eating disorders and postpartum depression. Upon her graduation from Marymount Manhattan College, she had the opportunity to be published in Dr. Nava Silton’s book, The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child, Adolescent, and Adult Development. Her previous work has been featured in Project HEAL, BALANCE, Olive Branch Nutrition, and Nourishing NY.
