Understanding ARFID: New Research and Resources for Families
- Oxfordshire Parent Carers Forum
- Jul 22
- 2 min read
Navigating eating challenges with your child can be incredibly isolating — especially when their needs don’t fit typical feeding advice or support. If your child or young person avoids food for sensory reasons, struggles with intense anxiety around mealtimes, or has a very limited diet that causes concern, you may have come across the term ARFID – Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.
A new research project from CANDDID (Centre for Autism, Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Intellectual Disability) has explored ARFID in more depth and now offers a series of helpful resources for families, professionals, and schools.
📄 What is ARFID? Understanding a Complex Eating Difference
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a recognised and treatable condition that can have a significant impact on health, nutrition, and everyday life. It is not linked to concerns about body image or weight, but may instead be associated with:
🔹 Sensory sensitivity – e.g. taste, texture, smell, or temperature of food
🔹 Fear of negative consequences – such as choking, vomiting, or nausea
🔹 Low appetite or limited interest in eating
🔹 Neurodevelopmental conditions – including autism, ADHD, or anxiety
This helpful factsheet from the Maudsley Centre for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders breaks down key information about ARFID in a clear, accessible format. It includes:
✅ Causes and signs of ARFID
✅ Who can be affected
✅ Where to go for help
✅ What ARFID is — and what it isn’t
🧠 ARFID is not “just picky eating” or a behavioural phase — it’s a condition that deserves understanding and support.
📘 What’s Available for Parent Carers?
The CANDDID research team has put together a comprehensive online resource to support understanding and awareness. This includes:
Clear, accessible information about what ARFID is and how it presents
Short educational videos to help parents, carers, and professionals
Tips and strategies to support children and young people experiencing ARFID
Insights from families and young people who have lived experience
Whether you’re seeking information for yourself, trying to explain ARFID to your child’s school, or simply looking for reassurance that you’re not alone — this is a helpful starting point.
💻 Explore the Research & Resources
You can access everything on the CANDDID website here:
🔗 https://www.canddid.nhs.uk/research/current-research/avoidantrestrictive-food-intake-disorder-arfid
🏡 Oxfordshire-Specific Support – In Development
You’re not alone — and it’s okay to ask for understanding and support. We hope these resources help you feel more informed and empowered as you navigate feeding challenges with your child.
We’re also actively working with health services here in Oxfordshire to develop and share more local information and guidance for families. As soon as these additional resources are available, we’ll make sure to pass them on.
Comments