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wrote on January 31, 2017
at
6:19 pm
Hello, my name is Maya, and I'm 16. I am very happy that I found this website. Ever since I was little, I've had problems with food. Now I can not eat any fruits, vegetables, or most meat except for beef and chicken. I am healthy at the moment, but I worry that I will have health problems in the future. My parents have not been supportive of this at all. My mom and especially my dad have always made fun of me and compared me to a toddler when I picked at my food or refused to eat. When I discovered that I have a real condition and told my parents, they laughed. They think I just need to grow up. My mom asked me "Are you proud of yourself for having a disorder?". My family is Lebanese, and I can hardly even look at most Arabic food. I have a lot of trouble at formal dinners. I know most people I know will probably react the way my parents did if I tell them about this, so that is why I'm so glad I found this site. If anyone has advice for expanding my diet or dealing with my relatives, I'd really appreciate it.
Admin Reply by: Bob
Dear Maya You should have your parents look up ARFID Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder in the DSM-3 from 2013. The way you describe your eating it sounds like you very well could have it. The disorder can take many forms. You and I know that you never asked to be the way you are and you would change if you could. Going to family social events can be extremely troubling for those of us with ARFID. It is very hard for someone who does eat a wide variety of foods to understand what our world is like. There is no reason why you can't have a great long healthy life. You might want to also discuss this with your doctor. You can also join our Yahoo or Facebook support groups. Bob K
