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AUTISM GLOSSARY
ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
DEFINITION
ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by avoidance or restriction of food based on sensory properties, fear of choking or vomiting, or lack of interest in eating — not body image. It is significantly more common in autistic people.
WHY IT MATTERS
ARFID is a genuine medical and nutritional concern that deserves specialized support. Sensory-based feeding therapy is more effective than pressure-based approaches.
COMMON MISCONCEPTION
ARFID is not picky eating that will resolve with persistence. It is not willful defiance. Forcing foods to people with ARFID typically worsens the condition.