ARFID
#4
I wanted to learn more about eating disorders, as they are not uncommon in many teenagers and young adults today. I wanted to start off with ARFID, since it is a lesser-known eating disorder that not as many people are aware of.
What is ARFID?
ARFID, which stands for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, can affect anyone, but is most common in children. People with ARFID are very sensitive to different textures, smells, and tastes of foods. They may also be afraid of throwing up or choking when eating.
Symptoms
Weight loss, not having an appetite, lethargy, and nutritional deficiencies can all be signs of ARFID.
Risk Factors
People that have had a traumatic experience with food, have a condition that affects neurological function, or have severe picky eating/have not outgrown picky eating are more at risk of developing ARFID.
Treatments
Treatments for ARFID include medications, nutrition counseling, and therapy. Some types of therapy that treat ARFID are cognitive behavioral therapy and family based therapy.
Sources: