What are the 5 types of ARFID?
What are the 5 types of ARFID?
Understanding the 5 Types of ARFID: A Closer Look at Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) might not be as well-known as anorexia or bulimia, but it's a significant eating disorder that affects many people. Let's explore the five types of ARFID: avoidant, aversive, restrictive, adult ARFID, and ARFID plus.
1. Avoidant ARFID
Avoidant ARFID is the most common type. People with this form of ARFID avoid certain foods because of their sensory characteristics. Imagine biting into something mushy when you hate mushy textures—it’s a bit like that, but much more intense. These individuals might steer clear of foods based on their texture, smell, or even appearance. This isn’t just picky eating; it’s a strong, often overwhelming aversion that can severely limit their diet.
2. Aversive ARFID
Aversive ARFID is driven by a fear of negative consequences. Think about a time when you got sick from something you ate—now imagine that fear magnified and spread across many foods. People with aversive ARFID might be terrified of choking, vomiting, or having an allergic reaction, even if there’s no real risk. This fear can become so intense that it severely restricts their eating, leading to nutritional deficiencies.
3. Restrictive ARFID
People with restrictive ARFID simply don’t have much interest in eating. It’s not that they dislike food or are afraid of it; they just don’t feel motivated to eat. This lack of interest can lead to inadequate calorie intake and significant weight loss. Eating feels like a chore, and these individuals might stick to a very narrow range of foods because they don't derive pleasure from eating.
4. Adult ARFID
While ARFID is often diagnosed in children, it doesn’t disappear in adulthood. Adult ARFID refers to those who continue to struggle with the disorder as they grow older. The challenges remain, but adults might also face additional issues, such as social stigma or difficulty finding support. Managing ARFID as an adult can be particularly tough, but understanding that it’s a continuation of a childhood disorder can help in seeking appropriate treatment.
5. ARFID Plus
ARFID plus is a combination of ARFID and other medical or psychological issues. For example, someone with ARFID might also have autism, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The interplay between ARFID and these additional conditions can make treatment more complex, requiring a more nuanced approach that addresses all underlying factors.
What are the primary reasons people develop or are affected by ARFID?
Though research is limited on ARFID, medical professionals and investigators have identified three primary reasons for ARFID. In a 2023 article in the Journal of Eating Disorders, the authors discuss these main reasons:
a lack of interest in food
avoidance of sensory characteristics of food and
concern about aversive consequences of eating, such as choking
Effective treatment for ARFID and sustainable recovery depends on a functional nutrition therapy approach helping patients improve their eating behaviors and well being with intuitive eating practices. Together, we will work to identify triggers and causes of ARFID to develop an individualized eating program with a dietitian nutritionist.
Living with ARFID
Living with ARFID can be incredibly challenging, but understanding the specific type can lead to better, more targeted treatments.
If you or someone you know is struggling with ARFID, it’s crucial to seek help from a healthcare provider who can offer a tailored approach to treatment. With the right support, individuals with ARFID can improve their relationship with food and enhance their overall quality of life.