Safe Foods

For 8 months, I spent 3 hours in treatment 3 days a week. I am in recovery from an eating disorder. More specifically, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).

Individuals with ARFID have preferred very limited foods. This isn’t surprising, but ARFID is something many autistics/neurodivergents struggle with. This can be from sensory sensitivities, lack of energy, intrusive thoughts, need for routine, and more.

This isn’t something I generally share out of shame and embarrassment. The assumptions and stereotypes around eating disorders are toxic and diet culture doesn’t help. I am constantly trying to heal my relationship with food, pushing myself out of my comfort zone to try new things, have variety, go out to eat, eat in places other than my room, being flexible on the times I eat, slightly changing the appearance of my plate, making my food, the list goes on.

All foods are good foods. Fuel your body. Get help if you need it, whether from a treatment team or friends and family members. Hold yourself accountable.

On the days that everything feels like too much, I promise that getting a meal in, whatever that looks like for you, will help.

I’m here if you need support or want to understand ARFID more :)