Understanding Sensory Sensitivities in ARFID

What Are Sensory Sensitivities?

For some people, especially those with ARFID, certain tastes, textures, smells, or food temperatures can feel unbearable. Even sounds like chewing or the feel of metal utensils may trigger discomfort or panic.

Why It Happens

These sensitivities are often linked to how the brain processes sensory input. It’s more common in those with autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental differences. The nervous system reacts as if the experience is unsafe — even if the food is harmless.

What to Look For

• Avoiding foods with mixed textures (e.g. soup with bits)
• Rejecting food based on smell or appearance
• Gagging at certain textures or temperatures
• Covering ears during meals due to sound sensitivity
• Eating only one texture type (e.g. only crunchy or only smooth)

How to Support Them

Support starts with empathy and patience. Occupational therapists with sensory training can help by using gradual exposure techniques. Let the child (or adult) feel in control during meals — forced eating often backfires.