ARFID Eating Disorder Treatment

At Banyan Treatment Centers, we offer treatment for ARFID along with treatment for other eating disorders. It is our goal to educate and provide the most beneficial care for those seeking avoidant food intake disorder treatment. There are many contributing factors to eating disorders, which is why we provide unique recovery programs in Philadelphia to help and support our patients every step of the recovery process.



What Is ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)?

ARFID, or Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, was previously known as “selective eating disorder” and is similar to anorexia in that both have limitations on the amount or types of food consumed. While most people go through picky or selective eating phases, especially as children, individuals with ARFID tend to experience sensory-related issues with food, causing them to consume less calories than necessary for their weight, height, and age.



Common ARFID symptoms include:

  • Sudden refusal to eat certain foods
  • Extreme pickiness in choosing food
  • Fear of choking or vomiting
  • Eating very slowly
  • Noticeable weight loss
  • Anxiety when presented with “fear” foods (this may include foods that are high in calories, sugar, and/or carbohydrates)
  • Dependence on nutritional supplements, a feeding tube, or both
  • Avoiding particular foods based on texture, color, taste, smell, food groups, etc.
  • Vomiting or gagging frequently after exposure to certain foods
  • Unexplainable lack of appetite
  • Social isolation from loved ones
  • Difficulty in chewing foods
  • Eating extremely small portions
  • Trouble digesting certain types of food
 

In children, ARFID has resulted in stalled weight gain and vertical growth. If this condition goes untreated, over time the individual may begin to experience health risks associated with malnutrition, including heart problems, gastrointestinal problems, and hormonal imbalances.



ARFID Causes

While exact ARFID causes are unknown, many believe it is a combination of psychological, genetic, and triggering factors (like choking) that can lead to the development of ARFID. It’s also believed that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other similar medical conditions associated with feeding problems could lead to ARFID, as well.

If your loved one is showing any signs of this condition, come to us for treatment of ARFID. Without helping, those struggling with this condition may experience health problems like:

  • Co-occurring anxiety disorders
  • For children, failure to gain weight
  • Gastrointestinal complications
  • Malnutrition
  • Weight loss
  • Delays in development

Our center for eating disorder treatment uses all our resources to help find the best course of treatment for our patients. If you or a loved one are searching for an ARFID treatment facility, we’re here to help. Contact Banyan Treatment Centers today to learn more about our eating disorder treatment in Philadelphia.



Related Readings:
Can Eating Disorders Be Cured?
Do I Have Binge Eating Disorder?

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At Banyan Treatment Centers, our goal is to make sure that anyone who needs treatment from drug and alcohol addiction are able to get the help needed to assist them on the road to recovery. If you don't have insurance contact us to inquire about alternate methods regarding treatment for yourself or a loved one.

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