Getting kids to eat their veggies has always been a parenting struggle. Most children go through phases where pizza or chicken nuggets seem far more appealing than broccoli. For many, it’s a temporary stage. But for some, the difficulty with food doesn’t fade—and that’s when it may point to something deeper.
Children on the autism spectrum often experience nutritional gaps because of limited diets or strong food preferences. At Simple Spectrum, this is something close to our hearts. Our supplement was specifically developed to help fill those nutritional gaps caused by picky eating in children with autism. But picky eating isn’t always just a quirk of childhood—sometimes, it can overlap with a recognized eating disorder called Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
What Is ARFID?
ARFID is more than just selective eating. Until 2013, it was labeled “Selective Eating Disorder” in the DSM, but today it’s recognized as a formal eating disorder. Unlike typical picky eating, ARFID involves extreme food restrictions based on texture, smell, taste, or past negative experiences with food.
Children or adults with ARFID may:
- Avoid foods with certain textures or flavors
- Show little to no interest in eating
- Fear uncomfortable consequences such as choking, stomach pain, or vomiting
For many, even the thought of trying a new food can cause anxiety so strong it leads to gagging—or even avoiding situations like birthday parties or school lunches where food is involved.
It’s important to note that ARFID is not the same as anorexia nervosa. While both are eating disorders, ARFID isn’t connected to body image or a desire to lose weight. Instead, it’s driven by sensory sensitivities, fear, or lack of appetite.
ARFID vs. Picky Eating in Autism
So how does ARFID connect to autism? While many children with ASD struggle with picky eating due to sensory sensitivities, not all of them have ARFID. And likewise, someone can have ARFID without being autistic.
That said, there is a significant overlap:
- Both conditions can involve sensory aversions (to textures, tastes, or smells).
- Both can lead to restricted diets that cause nutritional deficiencies.
- Some children may experience both ASD and ARFID, making mealtimes even more challenging.
This is why it’s so important for parents and caregivers to understand the difference between “normal picky eating” and something that may require additional support.
What Causes ARFID?
Researchers are still learning about ARFID, but like many disorders, there doesn’t seem to be a single cause. Instead, it’s likely a mix of:
- Genetic factors
- Psychological influences
- Past negative experiences with food (like choking or vomiting)
Regardless of the root cause, unmanaged ARFID can result in weight loss, malnutrition, and developmental delays because the body isn’t receiving the nutrients it needs.
Supporting Children With ARFID and Autism
The good news? With the right support, ARFID can be managed. Many families find help through:
- Cognitive therapy, which addresses the anxiety or fear connected to eating
- Nutritional support, to fill dietary gaps and ensure children are getting the vitamins and minerals their bodies need
- Step-by-step exposure therapy, where safe, gradual introductions to new foods reduce fear over time
At Simple Spectrum, we understand how overwhelming mealtime struggles can feel. That’s why our supplements are carefully designed to be gluten-free, casein-free, GMO-free, and additive-free—so children with sensory sensitivities can still receive the nutrients that support healthy growth, brain function, and overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Every child deserves the chance to feel healthy and thrive. While picky eating is common, it’s important to recognize when eating habits signal something more—like ARFID. By combining education, nutritional support, and professional guidance, parents can help their children build a healthier, more positive relationship with food.
