ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) needs a different approach than typical picky-eating advice. Nisrine Hamad, RD, builds gradual, sensory-informed feeding plans for kids and teens with ARFID, entirely by telehealth.
ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, is an eating disorder marked by a limited range of accepted foods, driven by sensory sensitivity, fear of choking or vomiting, or simply a lack of interest in eating - rather than by concerns about weight or body shape. Left unsupported, it can lead to nutrient gaps, slowed growth, and significant stress around mealtimes for the whole family.
Because ARFID looks different in every child, treatment starts with a full picture of what, how much, and why your child eats the way they do, then builds forward from there at a pace they can actually tolerate.
It's not just "being a picky eater."
Most young children go through a picky eating phase - it's a normal part of development and usually improves with time. ARFID is different in scope and severity: it involves a persistently narrow list of "safe" foods, real nutritional or growth consequences, and mealtime distress that doesn't resolve on its own. If picky eating is affecting your child's weight, energy, nutrient intake, or ability to eat outside the home, it's worth a closer clinical look rather than waiting for it to pass.
A structured, patient process built around your child's specific sensory and anxiety-related barriers to eating.
A full review of your child's eating history, accepted foods, growth, and any related medical or sensory factors.
Small, manageable steps toward new foods and textures, at a pace that respects your child's comfort level.
Practical strategies for parents and caregivers to reduce mealtime stress and reinforce progress at home.
Nutrition care stays connected to any feeding therapists, occupational therapists, or physicians already involved.
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Answers families often ask before booking.
ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) is an eating disorder involving a limited range of accepted foods, driven by sensory sensitivity, fear-based avoidance, or low interest in eating, rather than body image concerns.
Typical picky eating is a developmental phase that usually improves over time. ARFID is more persistent and severe, often affecting a child's growth, nutrient intake, or ability to eat in social or school settings.
Treatment typically involves an individualized assessment followed by gradual, sensory-informed food exposure, paired with family coaching so progress continues between sessions.
In many cases, yes. We accept Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Optum, Oxford, Golden Rule, and UMR through Fay Nutrition, along with cash-pay options.
Book a telehealth visit and start building a personalized ARFID nutrition plan for your child.
