Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder most widely recognized in children, but it is not uncommon in adults. Individuals with ARFID will have trouble meeting nutritional and/or energy needs for any of the following reasons:
They lack interest in eating or don’t have much of an appetite for food.
They are concerned about aversive consequences related to eating, like choking, becoming sick, experiencing nausea, etc.
They eat and avoid foods based on sensory characteristics (color, taste, smell, texture, temperature, etc.)
Food restriction and avoidance in ARFID are not linked to body image issues, as with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. ARFID, sometimes known as “extreme picky eating,” is also linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and other conditions.
If you suspect that you have symptoms of ARFID, answer the questions below and share the results with a licensed mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing and treating eating disorders, including ARFID.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, contact the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) at www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for support, resources, and treatment options.
This self-test was adapted from the Nine Item ARFID Screen (NIAS) and the Pica, ARFID, and Rumination Disorder Interview (PARDI). It is designed to screen for the possibility of ARFID, and it is for personal use only. This test is not intended as a diagnostic tool. Only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose ARFID.
I avoid eating foods, or select foods to eat, based on things like texture, appearance, temperature, smell, and color.
I am often told that I am a picky eater.
I don’t have much of an appetite for food compared to other people.
I am uncomfortable with, perhaps even fearful of, trying new foods.
I tend to eat foods from a particular brand.
I avoid eating certain foods because I’m afraid I’ll choke, vomit, or otherwise experience uncomfortable sensations.
I avoid or don’t fully participate in social situations because of my eating habits.
I have a short list of foods I eat — and a longer list of foods I refuse to eat.
My eating habits affect my relationships with family members, friends, and others.
I tend to eat small portions of food, even foods I like.
I have to push myself to eat throughout the day.
I take supplements because of nutritional deficiencies directly related to my eating patterns.
My diet mostly consists of sugary, processed foods.
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ARFID Symptoms: Next Steps
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