#144: Rethinking ARFID as Neurodivergence and Raising "Picky Eaters" with Kevin Green (of @kevindoesarfid)

Dec 2

Were you labeled a "picky eater" growing up? Or are you raising a child with sensory preferences, feeding differences, or neurodivergence? In this episode, we’re diving deep into Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), its connection to neurodivergence, and the misconceptions surrounding so-called “picky eaters.”

We also discuss the intense pressure parents face from diet culture and social media, the impact of disembodying feeding practices on kids, and why “normal” eating doesn’t exist.

You’ll hear more about:

what is ARFID and how is it diagnosed?
the three main subtypes of ARFID
Kevin's lived experience with ARFID and autism
Abbie's similar experiences with OCD and an eating disorder
how neurodivergent experiences like autism and trauma intersect with eating challenges
why hiding veggies in your kids' food is probably not a great idea (and might be causing harm)
sensory sensitivity, fear of aversive consequences, and lack of interest in food
compassionate insights for parents
normalizing the challenges of feeding neurodivergent children
why ARFID is not a parenting failure
how we can better understand our own eating patterns
holding space for the importance of curiosity and respect
how to create a safe environment for exploration with food

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or curious about ARFID and food autonomy, this conversation offers validation, nuance, and radical reframing of what it means to nurture a truly embodied relationship with food. Don’t miss it!

About Kevin:

Kevin Green (they/them) is a disabled, mad, and queer artist from Western Massachusetts located on Pocumtuc People's land. Kevin's work reflects their experiences with mental health, ARFID, queerness, and neurodivergence. Kevin is passionate about advocating for accessible, client-led, and non-carceral oriented care. Follow along on Instagram @kevindoesarfid

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Group program:

Good news! Enrollment is open for Abbie's next group program:

Looking for more support and concrete steps to take to heal your relationship with food and your body? Apply for Abbie's next 10-week group program: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/group-coaching

Group membership:

Already been at this anti-diet culture thing for a while, but want community and continued learning? Apply for Abbie's monthly membership: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/circle-monthly-group