Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) Therapist in Boston
About Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a condition characterized by limited food intake. To be clear, it is not a result of a misrepresented self-image or a goal to lose body weight. ARFID is known for causing one to lose interest in eating, feeling anxious from the result of eating, such as choking or vomiting, and avoiding foods with unwanted smells, textures, and colors. Unusual eating patterns and behaviors are characteristic of ARFID. Still, more importantly, it can negatively affect your nutrient intake, which can then escalate, affecting your overall health and creating life-threatening complications.
ARFID Symptoms & Signs May include:
Massive weight loss
Constipation
Stomach pain and cramps
Low body temperature
Irregular menstrual cycles
Fainting & dizziness
Weak muscles
ARFID Behavioral Changes May Include:
Having zero appetite or feeling full before meals.
Limiting food intake
Difficulty paying attention
Only eating food with a specific texture
Fear of vomiting or choking
How is ARFID Caused?
It is challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). According to research, it may be caused by the following:
Fear
Social, cultural, and environmental influences
Trauma
The Difference Between Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake (ARFID) & Picky Eating
ARFID and picky eating are distinct conditions. For example, children are prone to avoiding certain foods due to their smell, taste, and overall appearance. Picky eating is usually temporary and typically affects only a few foods, without impacting the child’s growth, appetite, or development. ARFID, on the other hand, can cause serious complications that have a lasting effect on appetite and overall health.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake (ARFID) Treatment in Boston, MA
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT) is an evidence-based psychological treatment that has been proven effective through scientific research for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Studies have shown that CBT is an effective treatment for disorders besides ARFID, like anxiety, chronic pain, addiction, anger problems, and more. CBT addresses both the cognitions (thoughts) and behaviors leading to dysfunction. For example, individuals learn ways to challenge unhelpful ways of thinking and reduce behaviors such as avoidance or checking that maintain symptoms such as anxiety or depression. During CBT, everyday challenges are broken down into small, manageable parts and aligned with short-term goals to be achieved. CBT is an effective treatment for ARFID because it helps those diagnosed with the disorder address the issues with a positive outlook. The therapists at Soultality Center for Psychotherapy in Cambridge, MA, are with you every step of the way to help you conquer your ARFID through our CBT treatment.
Does ARFID Have Risk Factors?
Although avoidant/restrictive food intake (ARFID) is mostly common during childhood, it can happen to anyone, both adults and children. If you suspect that you have ARFID, or are at risk of developing it, pay close attention to the risk factors below:
Prior traumatic experiences involving food.
Having conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD can affect your development and overall functioning.
Fear of certain foods harming or damaging your body
Biological family history of eating disorders
A strong dislike of certain textures
