Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is often misunderstood. Lets explore what ARFID commonly looks like in everyday life.
Many people with ARFID rely on a very small number of “safe foods”. These foods often must be the same brand, be prepared a specific way, or have the same temperature and texture. A small change can make a previously safe food feel impossible to eat. Families may visit multiple supermarkets to find a specific brand or product. If it’s unavailable, it can cause significant distress, not disappointment, but panic. This can appear as tears or meltdowns in the aisle, shutting down, leaving the store early and days of reduced food intake afterwards.
Eating with others may feel unsafe. Birthday parties, school lunches, family dinners, cafes, holidays can be sources of anxiety. Children with ARFID may avoid social events involving food, eat beforehand and sit at the table without eating, bring their own food everywhere, hide their eating differences due to shame. They may worry about being watched or commented on, the social impact can be just as heavy as the nutritional one.
Additionally, many children with ARFID may display strong physical reactions to food such as gagging, retching, nausea, panic or feeling like they may choke. These reactions are automatic, not dramatic. They are protective reflexes.
ARFID is invisible to many, but very real to those living it every day. With understanding, compassion, and the right support, things can change slowly and gently. The main goal is raising awareness so this condition is not missed.