Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Treatment In Pennsylvania

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Treatment In Pennsylvania

People with ARFID restrict food intake to specific types of foods or limit the amount of food they eat. Unlike anorexia, though, many individuals with the condition aren’t necessarily concerned with their body image or weight. Individuals with ARFID avoid foods due to sensory sensitivities, fears of negative consequences, or an overall disinterest in food or eating.

Almost half of the children diagnosed with the condition report avoiding particular foods because they fear vomiting or choking. Additionally, one-fifth report food avoidance because of sensory issues. Those on the autism spectrum are more likely to develop ARFID, as well as those diagnosed with ADHD.

One study found that 14% of adolescents at an eating disorder treatment facility met the criteria for ARFID. Still, other research suggests that ARFID may be just as common as other eating disorders. Despite its prevalence, the newness of the condition may mean people don’t know what to look for.

ARFID Symptoms

Due to missing nutritional components, people with ARFID may be at very low body weights or suffer from malnutrition.

ARFID indicators:

• Decreased appetite
• Dramatic weight loss
• GI Issues
• Fear of illness, choking, or vomiting
• Menstrual irregularities
• Dizziness or falling
• Inability to stay adequately nourished
• Compromised growth
• Nutritional deficiency (i.e. iron deficiency anemia)

Comparing ARFID to Anorexia?

ARFID is commonly confused with anorexia nervosa due to the shared symptoms of drastic weight loss and nutritional deficiency. However, while some symptoms are similar, the two eating disorders are not the same. The most notable difference is that those with ARFID lack a desire for thinness and obsessive thoughts about body image.

Blue Ridge ARFID Treatment

In our Pennsylvania residential program, your daughter will 24/7 supervision while being nurtured to heal, grow, and recover from their eating disorder. Blue Ridge has also  become a residential program destination for families in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and beyond. Our eating disorder programs are designed to help the attain the best possible outcome through personalized, integrative, and compassionate care.

Call us today at 570-718-8800 to learn more about our Pennsylvania program for adolescent girls.