The Brian Lehrer Show What to Know About the Eating Disorder ARFID
Aug 6, 2025
William Sharp, director of the Multidisciplinary Feeding Program at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and a pediatric nutrition expert, joins author Caitlin Moscatello to discuss ARFID, an eating disorder characterized by extreme pickiness. They explore the significant emotional toll ARFID takes on families and emphasize the need for tailored treatments, especially for children on the autism spectrum. Personal stories reveal the challenges of navigating traditional treatment methods and highlight the importance of awareness and accessibility in care for those affected.
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What Is ARFID?
- ARFID is a psychiatric condition involving negative associations with food due to fear or discomfort.
- It causes avoidance of food leading to malnutrition or medical issues like scurvy and rickets.
ARFID Is Newly Diagnosed But Older
- ARFID existed before its 2013 diagnosis but is now recognized and diagnosed more due to awareness.
- Medical advances, like feeding tubes, can disrupt sensory food experiences, contributing to ARFID.
ARFID's Prevalence and Family Impact
- ARFID is common, affecting up to 5% of children, and especially prevalent among those with autism or prematurity.
- Children’s food rejection causes enormous stress for families as eating is a central caregiving role.