By What Is ARFID?
There is always a question that has surrounded all of us and that is what is ARFID? ARFID commonly known as Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a new eating disorder. With ARFID people mostly children avoid eating food or certain types of foods. Not only does this lead to inadequate weight loss but a loss in nutritional value in the entire body. In ARFID they may not eat food and are limited to eating food on a very limited basis.
In Which Age Group Is ARFID More Common?
Now that we know what is ARFID, we also need to discuss in which age groups it is more common and if we see then technically, ARFID is more common in younger age groups and children. Another thing that we need to remember is that, ARFID is not associated with any eating disorder or food intake disorder, it is due to other reasons.
A lot of people confuse it with, a self-image that often leads to selective eating or less food intake, but in actuality, it is entirely different and ARFID no way comes close to other eating disorders.
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What Are The Causes Of ARFID?
The exact ARFID causes are not yet known however many reasons can lead to ARFID. Many factors lead up to it but here are a few causes and factors that lead to ARFID these include:
- Biological Factors
Genetics play a huge role in ARFID. Especially if there is a history of eating disorders in a family that struggles with selective eating and malnutrition then the coming generation may most likely experience it. It is very possible in families that live under the poverty line and because of limited resources they are unable to provide the best facilities to other children therefore conditions like ARFID and malnutrition are very common.
Another factor that can contribute to it can be the sensory processing issues which means that there are people who have issues related to the smell, taste and sight of some foods which often leads to ARFID. Another major factor for ARFID can also be gastrointestinal issues like constipation and reflux which are very prevalent these days.
- Psychological Factors
Another very big reason is the psychological factors. A child’s psychology is very significant and it often leads to ARFID. Children who struggle a lot with high levels of anxiety and have a history of anxiety and stress then that child is more likely to have food aversions and malnutrition. Similarly, children who have experienced trauma in their lives also experience weight loss because of ARFID.
Not only that, children who struggle with psychology also experience vomiting and severe allergies. Children who have fluctuating and bad mental health also experience ARFID. Some individuals seem to have a lack of interest in certain foods which could also be because of underlying mental health issues and psychological issues.
- Social And Environmental Factors
Men individuals who have seen and experienced neglected parents also experience ARFID. Similarly, often when parents are overly anxious about their child’s eating patterns and habits also leads them to eat limited food.
We see many children exercising for weight loss and fluctuating health because of social factors. Negative experiences and peer pressure from others and family members can also lead to ARFID. If a child is constantly scrutinized for their body image and body weight then it will affect a child psychology and child development.
What Are The Symptoms Of ARFID?
Now coming towards the symptoms. There are many symptoms of ARFID however these are some very prominent signs and symptoms of ARFID;
- Some kids are very selective eaters and they may have storing reactions to certain smells and tastes.
- Lose interest in eating
- Being a picky eater
- Requiring food to be prepared in a certain way
- A significant loss in weight
- Children and individuals who have nutrition deficiencies
- Children and individuals who have gastrointestinal issues
- Prolonged meals
- Disruption of daily meals
What Problems Can Happen With ARFID?
ARFID may lead to many problems and these problems can lead to many things including:
- Not getting enough vitamins
- Not getting enough protein and minerals
- Need tube feeding
- Grow poorly
- Experiencing delayed puberty
- Experiencing different hormonal issues and digestive-related issues
- Experiencing dizziness
- Dehydration
- Slow pause
- Weakened postures and bone-related diseases
All of these problems are related to ARFID and it is because when a child or an individual is not getting the required nutrients via food then they tend to experience all these problems. These problems can later cause serious complications that are lifelong and very severe. So to cope with these it’s very important to go for the diagnosis and treatment of ARFID.
What Is The Treatment Of ARFID?
For the ARFID diagnosis, you first need to take your child to a doctor. For the ARFID treatment, the doctor will first examine and assess the child. They will check their medical history and eating habits.
Doctors will look for:
- Significant weight loss
- Serious nutrition factors
- Poor appetite and lack of interest in food
After that, there are many treatments that a doctor may opt for. There are many treatments and these include; dietary consultations, and therapy. Other therapies include Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and family-based therapy (FBT). These are some of the very important and prominent therapies that will help in treating AFRID.
ARFID Vs Anorexia Nervosa
Many people confuse, ARFID with Anorexia nervosa and sometimes these terms are often used interchangeably however these two terms are entirely different. When we refer to ARFID then it means the limitation of food intake and many times it’s not psychological. The reasons and factors of ARFID are way different from that of Anorexia nervosa. In anorexia nervosa, the conditions and factors are very different and in anorexia, the factors are psychological and mental. A child or an individual is concerned about self-image and body image however, in ARFID the factors are entirely different. In anorexia nervosa, many girls are usually the victims of it. However, AFRID is prevalent in everybody and almost in all age groups. ARFID in adults and ARFID in children are different. For this mental health awareness is very important.
Final Thoughts
What is ARFID? This eating disorder, often misunderstood, can have a profound impact on an individual’s physical and mental health. Characterized by limited food intake, ARFID can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and social isolation. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ARFID is crucial for early intervention. Seeking professional help from qualified healthcare providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and registered dietitians, is essential for developing a comprehensive treatment plan. With appropriate therapy, nutritional guidance, and support, individuals with ARFID can improve their quality of life and develop healthier eating habits.
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FAQS
What is ARFID eating disorder?
AFRID is characterised as an Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. It is an eating disorder where which refers to the limitation and extreme avoidance of food and certain types of foods. This disorder leads to nutritional disorder and weight loss. This also leads to fluctuations in weight gain and weight loss. Unlike, other eating disorders AFRID is not something that is related or associated with self-image or body image.
What is ARFID in children?
ARFID is an eating disorder that is characterised by Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. In children, there are ARFID is quite different from adults. In ARFID many young children have habits which include selective eating, avoidance of food and nutrition deficiencies.
What is ARFID disorder?
AFRID is characterised as an Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. It is an eating disorder where which refers to the limitation and extreme avoidance of food and certain types of foods. This disorder leads to nutritional disorder and weight loss. This also leads to fluctuations in weight gain and weight loss. Unlike, other eating disorders AFRID is not something that is related or associated with self-image or body image.
What is ARFID in adults?
AFRID is characterised as an Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. It is an eating disorder where which refers to the limitation and extreme avoidance of food and certain types of foods. This disorder leads to nutritional disorder and weight loss. This also leads to fluctuations in weight gain and weight loss. Unlike, other eating disorders AFRID is not something that is related or associated with self-image or body image. In adults, ARFID is slightly different although it is the same as the children, however, in adults it is different as adults often suffer from psychological factors. For them, the treatments are different which also includes therapies.
What is ARFID disease?
AFRID is characterised as an Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. It is an eating disorder where which refers to the limitation and extreme avoidance of food and certain types of foods. This disorder leads to nutritional disorder and weight loss. This also leads to fluctuations in weight gain and weight loss. Unlike, other eating disorders AFRID is not something that is related or associated with self-image or body image.
