ARFID-like Eating Symptoms

Does your child eat only a few foods? Do they become upset when you offer something new, or refuse to eat foods because of their smell, texture or appearance?

If this sounds familiar, you may have wondered whether your child is simply a picky eater or whether something else is happening.

One possibility is Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).

What is ARFID?

ARFID is an eating disorder that affects the amount and/or variety of food a person eats. Unlike anorexia nervosa, it is not driven by a desire to lose weight or change body shape.

Children with ARFID may want to eat more foods but find it extremely difficult. Their eating difficulties are real and are not simply a choice or a behavioural choice.

What are the signs of ARFID?

ARFID can look different from one child to another. Some common signs include:

• Eating a very limited range of foods: Your child may accept only a few familiar foods, brands or meals.
• Sensory sensitivities: They may struggle with particular textures, smells, tastes, colours or food temperatures.
• Fear of eating: They may worry about choking, vomiting, gagging or experiencing pain after eating.
• Little interest in food: Eating may feel like a chore. Your child may rarely feel hungry or become full after eating only a small amount.
• Anxiety at mealtimes: They may become distressed when new foods are offered or when familiar foods look different.
• Avoiding social situations: Eating at school, birthday parties, restaurants or friends’ houses may feel overwhelming.

Over time, these difficulties can affect growth, nutritional health, energy levels and family life. Some children may also struggle to gain weight as expected.

Importantly, a child does not need to be underweight to experience ARFID.

How can parents help?

It can be worrying when your child eats very little or refuses most foods. You may feel frustrated, anxious or unsure what to do next.

Try to remember that your child is not giving you a hard time – this is not a choice and they may be having a hard time themselves.

This is not your fault either.

You can help by:

• Keeping mealtimes calm and predictable.
• Avoiding pressure, threats or forcing your child to eat.
• Continuing to offer familiar foods that help your child feel safe.
• Introducing new foods gradually, without expecting your child to eat them straight away.
• Seeking professional advice if you are concerned about their weight and growth

If you recognise these signs in your child, speak to your GP or a healthcare professional with experience in feeding difficulties and eating disorders. Early support can help you understand your child’s needs and find a way forward. Univa’s ARFID care programme is designed for exactly this stage, offering early, specialist support for children with suspected or diagnosed ARFID, and for the parents and carers alongside them.