ARFID stands for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It’s an eating disorder where a person avoids certain foods or eats only a very small range of foods. This isn’t necessarily because they want to lose weight or are worried about how they look. Instead, it might be because of: -A lack of interest in eating or food -Being very sensitive to the taste, smell, texture, or look of certain foods -A fear of choking, vomiting, or having a bad reaction to food People with ARFID might not eat enough to grow properly (in children), stay healthy, or get the nutrition they need. It can lead to weight loss, health problems, or needing supplements or special feeding methods. ARFID can affect anyone—children, teens, or adults—though it often starts in childhood. It’s not just being “picky”; there is a functional aspect of food avoidance that can lead to serious physical and mental health concerns.
