Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder where a person has an extremely limited range or amount of food that they are able to eat. Unlike anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, people with ARFID are not restricting food because they want to lose weight or change the shape of their body. In many autistic and other neurodivergent individuals, food avoidance is closely linked to sensory differences, a strong preference for familiarity and routine, or feeling overwhelmed by the smell, taste, texture or appearance of certain foods. ARFID is much more than “being a picky eater”—it is a recognised medical condition that can significantly affect nutrition, growth, health and everyday life.
People with ARFID are often misunderstood. Family, friends and even healthcare professionals may assume they are simply fussy, stubborn or choosing not to eat. In reality, many people with ARFID want to be able to eat a wider variety of foods but find it genuinely difficult or distressing. Living with ARFID can make school, work, family meals, social events and travel challenging, and some people develop nutritional deficiencies, poor growth or weight changes because their safe foods are so limited. The condition can also lead to anxiety around eating situations and feelings of embarrassment or isolation.
Treatment for ARFID focuses on helping the individual gradually expand their range of accepted foods while respecting their sensory experiences and neurodiversity. Rather than forcing foods or expecting rapid change, support is tailored to the person’s needs and progresses at a pace they can manage. Here are CCEDS we offer neuro-affirming support to improve nutrition, build confidence around food, reduce the impact ARFID has on daily life and help develop a healthier, more flexible relationship with food.
If you are under an NDIS plan you can often access support from us straight away. Just check whether you have Dietetian support under Capacity Building – Improved Health and Wellbeing in your plan. If you don’t we can often undertake a range of assessments to provide you with further evidence that may enable you to have Dietetic support added. Feel free to contact us for more info, or request more info here.