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Arfid is a serious disorder that also affects mental health
How ARFID Affects Health and What It Really Is
Eating disorders are among serious issues that can have far-reaching consequences on a person's physical and mental health. One of the less known, but equally important disorders is ARFID. What is it, and why is it important to talk about this disorder? ARFID, professionally called Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, represents a significant problem affecting not only eating habits but also social life and overall functioning of an individual. Unlike anorexia or bulimia, it is not about the fear of gaining weight, but about intense selectiveness and restriction in food choices. Why does this happen, and how does ARFID affect daily life?
What is it and who does it affect?
ARFID is not just mere pickiness with food. People suffering from this disorder often refuse a wide range of foods based on their texture, smell, taste, or even color. They may also have a fear of certain food preparation methods or have traumatic experiences related to food, such as choking or severe nausea after eating a particular dish. These experiences can have such a strong impact that they trigger anxiety and panic attacks related to eating in the affected individual.
While most children may experience some pickiness that fades with age, ARFID is a disorder that persists and can deepen in adulthood. Patients often eat only a limited range of foods, which over time leads to a deficiency in essential nutrients and can cause serious health issues, such as malnutrition or growth disorders in children.
What are the main symptoms of ARFID?
Think about what typical social events look like – family dinners, birthday parties, corporate lunches. For most people, these situations are natural, but for individuals with ARFID, they can be very stressful. Avoiding certain foods at such events can be difficult, leading people with this disorder to start avoiding social gatherings where food is involved. This can lead to social isolation, depression, and anxiety.
Main symptoms of ARFID include:
- Avoidance of specific foods based on their texture, smell, color, or other properties.
- Fear of food that is not carefully prepared or could cause unpleasant physical symptoms.
- A limited diet that includes only a few "safe" foods.
- Anxiety or panic attacks associated with the thought of consuming undesirable foods.
- Significant weight loss or insufficient weight gain in children and adolescents.
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How does ARFID affect health?
Long-term food intake restriction can have severe impacts on a person's overall health. People suffering from ARFID often do not eat a balanced diet, leading to a deficiency in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats. This can cause physical weakness, fatigue, growth problems, weakened immunity, and other health complications.
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A lack of iron can, for example, lead to anemia, while low vitamin D levels can cause bone problems. Insufficient protein intake can impact muscle growth and development, which is particularly problematic for children and adolescents who need proper nutrition for healthy growth.
Psychological aspects of ARFID
ARFID is not just a physical disorder but also has strong psychological aspects. It often occurs in conjunction with anxiety disorders, autism, or sensory processing disorders. People with ARFID usually have a highly developed sensory system that overreacts to various stimuli, which can include food.
For affected individuals, every meal can be a stressful experience, affecting their overall quality of life. Eating problems can also affect their self-esteem, and they may feel different or inferior due to their inability to eat like other people.
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What are the causes of ARFID?
The causes of ARFID are not entirely clear, but experts believe a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors plays a significant role. Some children may be genetically predisposed to sensory issues or anxiety, contributing to the development of this disorder. Trauma related to food, such as choking or digestive problems after consuming a specific food, can also play an important role.
There is also a connection between ARFID and other mental disorders, including autism, where increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli is common. Anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder can also contribute to the development and maintenance of ARFID.
How is ARFID treated?
Treating ARFID is not easy and usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. A key element is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps patients change negative habits associated with food and gradually introduce new foods into their diet. Collaboration with a nutritional therapist is also important to ensure the patient receives enough nutrients for a healthy life.
Sometimes collaboration with a psychiatrist is needed, who can help with anxiety and other mental health issues often associated with ARFID. Therapy is long-term and requires patience from both the patient and their surroundings.
Support from family and loved ones
Support from family and loved ones is crucial for the successful treatment of ARFID. People suffering from this disorder often need a lot of understanding and support, as their eating problems are not just a matter of "whim" or "stubbornness." Family and friends should help create a safe and non-stressful environment where patients can feel comfortable trying new foods and overcoming their fears.
ARFID is a serious disorder affecting not only eating habits but also the psychological well-being and social life of an individual. Understanding what ARFID is shows that it is a complex problem that requires professional help and support from loved ones. Recognizing symptoms and early treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for people suffering from this disorder. If you suspect someone around you has this disorder, do not hesitate to seek expert help who can advise on how to address the situation and how to help.
