Synthesize current evidence on the neurobiology and clinical management of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder to outline directions for future research.
Narrative review of emerging neurobiological and clinical treatment studies in avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).
Analysis of phenotypic drivers including sensory sensitivity, fear of aversive consequences, and food interest deficits.
Eating restrictions in ARFID are primarily maintained by sensory sensitivities, fear of aversive outcomes, or a lack of interest in eating.
Neurobiological findings indicate that food avoidance stems predominantly from aberrant anticipation of eating rather than the physical act of consumption.