ARFID Resources for Parents and Caregivers

Written By Maggie Stenson

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by restrictive eating that is not driven by body image concerns. There are three primary subtypes:

  • Sensory: strong aversions to specific food textures, tastes, or smells, resulting in a limited variety of “safe” foods.

  • Fear of Adverse Consequences: avoidance of certain foods due to fear of negative outcomes such as choking or vomiting.

  • Disinterest in Eating: low motivation or lack of interest in food and eating.

ARFID was officially added to the DSM-5 in 2013, making it a relatively new diagnosis. Because of this, many parents and caregivers struggle to find reliable resources on how to best support their loved ones. At ATX Nutritional Counseling, we know how important it is for families to feel equipped and empowered to best support their loved ones. To help, we recommend the following books:

  • ARFID Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: A Guide for Parents and Carers by Rachel Bryant-Waugh

  • Food Chaining: he Proven 6-Step Plan to Stop Picky Eating, Solve Feeding Problems, and Expand Your Child's Diet by Cheryl Fraker, RD, LD, CLC, Mark Fishbein, MD, Sibyl Cox, RD, LD, CLC, and Laura Walbert, CCC-SLP

  • Helping Your Child with Extreme Picky EatingA Step-by-Step Guide for Overcoming Selective Eating, Food Aversion, and Feeding Disorders by Katja Rowell, MD and Jenny McGlothlin, MS, SLP

  • Beyond a Bite: Activities for a Mindful Mealtime by Yaffi Lyova, RDN

  • Conquer Picky Eating for Teens and Adults: Activities and Strategies for Selective Eaters by Jenny McGothlin, MS, SLP and Katja Rowell, MD

If your loved one is struggling with ARFID and you feel unsure how to support them, we are here to help. ARFID is one of Maggie’s specialties, and she is passionate about working alongside clients as they expand food variety and challenge food fears.

We also offer parent education sessions, available virtually or in person at our Austin and Georgetown offices. These sessions provide a safe and supportive space to:

  • Better understand ARFID

  • Learn strategies for navigating tough conversations around food

  • Ask questions in a nonjudgmental environment

If you’d like to schedule a session, please use the link below!


Maggie Stenson
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Eating Disorder Resources for Parents and Caregivers