Clinical Reflections and Treatment Adaptations for Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: A Case Study

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a serious eating disorder, characterised by problematic eating habits that cause significant nutritional deficiencies. Having only been recently acknowledged as a distinct category, there is little research regarding best practice guidelines, especially among the adult population. In addition, ARFID often coexists with autism, and very little is known about how the diagnoses affect each other, further complicating treatment options. This case study reflects on the treatment of a young autistic woman with ARFID within an inpatient eating disorder setting. Using principles of food exposure, food trials were introduced as a way to increase food variety as well as overall nutrition. Results are promising, with the patient reaching a much safer weight and being able to increase her repertoire of food. While results are not generalisable to a wider population, it is hoped that similar approach could be used with other individuals who have ARFID and autism when aiming to increase nutrition and variety.

Automated summary

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a serious eating disorder with little research on best practices, especially among adults. When ARFID coexists with autism, treatment options become further complicated. This case study discusses the treatment of an autistic woman with ARFID in an inpatient eating disorder setting. Food exposure and trials were used to increase food variety and nutrition, leading to promising results in weight and food repertoire improvement. Although results may not apply to a wider population, this approach could be beneficial for individuals with ARFID and autism.