ARFID and Diabetes
What is ARFID?
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by limited food intake or variety, but unlike other eating disorders, it is not driven by body image or fear of weight gain. Instead, ARFID is often related to sensory sensitivities, fear of negative consequences (like choking or vomiting), trauma, or a lack of interest in eating.
ARFID can occur in individuals with all forms of diabetes, across all ages.
Warning Signs of ARFID in Diabetes
ARFID can look different from other eating disorders, but common signs include:
Very limited range of accepted or “safe” foods
Avoidance of entire food groups or textures
Skipping meals or difficulty eating consistently
Fear of choking, vomiting, or GI discomfort
Anxiety around trying new foods
Blood sugar variability due to inconsistent intake
Difficulty matching insulin or medication to food intake
Reliance on the same foods regardless of blood sugar needs
Dangers of ARFID in Diabetes
For people with diabetes, ARFID can make it difficult to maintain consistent nutrition, carbohydrate intake, and blood sugar stability. Because diabetes management often requires regular eating and flexibility, ARFID can create additional medical and emotional challenges. Over time, a restricted diet may result in nutrient deficiencies, low energy, and impaired immune function. The stress of trying to manage diabetes without reliable nutrition can also increase anxiety, burnout, and avoidance of diabetes care. Without support, these patterns can interfere with both short-term safety and long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions About ARFID and Diabetes
Here are some of the most common questions we hear from individuals and families trying to make sense of ARFID with diabetes.
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No. While ARFID may look like picky eating, it is a clinically recognized eating disorder that can impact nutrition, health, and daily functioning, especially when combined with diabetes.
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Inconsistent eating or limited food options can make it difficult to match insulin or medications, leading to frequent highs and lows.
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Treatment typically includes therapy, nutrition support, and diabetes care working together to improve food variety, reduce fear around eating, and stabilize blood sugar.
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No. ARFID is different from many other eating disorders because it is not driven by a desire to lose weight or change body shape. Instead, it’s typically related to sensory sensitivities, fear of negative experiences (like choking or nausea), trauma, or a lack of interest in eating. People with ARFID can also have body image concerns that arise, however their food fears and concerns are not driven by those body image concerns.
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If you’re concerned about a loved one, approach the conversation with empathy and without judgment. Focus on expressing concern rather than trying to control their behavior. Encouraging professional support from providers experienced in both diabetes and eating disorders can be an important next step.
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Yes, recovery from ARFID is absolutely possible with the right support! Treatment that addresses both the medical and psychological aspects of the condition can help individuals rebuild a safer relationship with food over time.
Treatment for ARFID and Diabetes: How to Get Started
Step 1: Free Phone Consult
Let’s chat! Schedule a free 15 min phone call with a member of our team so we can talk through your concerns, match you with a clinician who will be a great fit, and answer any questions you have.
Step 2: Initial Assessment
Our first appointment together (75-90 min) is a chance for us to get to know each other better! We’ll take a deep dive into your past and present relationship with food, your body, and your diabetes care. We will explore what type of support you need to meet your goals, answer your questions, and establish a plan for moving forward.
Step 3: Follow Up Care
Follow up sessions (50 min) are where we’ll do the hard work together. During these appointments, we will reflect on progress, celebrate wins, and unpack struggles to help you move toward a healthier relationship with food, your body, and your diabetes care. We will provide you with tools, education, and structure to support you through the inevitable ups and downs of this journey.