Neurodivergent Feeding Support
ARFID, autism, ADHD, and sensory-based feeding difficulties
Why feeding can be different for neurodivergent children
Many neurodivergent children experience eating differently. Sensory processing, interoceptive awareness, need for sameness, executive function, and anxiety can all shape how a child relates to food — and none of these things are a choice.
Your child may eat a very limited range of foods, become distressed around unfamiliar meals, or have strong preferences for specific textures, temperatures, or brands. These patterns are often misunderstood as “fussiness” — but they reflect real neurological differences in how food is experienced.
If your child has been given an ARFID diagnosis, is awaiting assessment, or simply has a relationship with food that doesn’t match what’s expected — you are not alone, and there is support available.
Understanding ARFID
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
ARFID is a recognised feeding and eating disorder where a person consistently avoids or restricts food to the point where it affects their nutrition, growth, or daily functioning. It is not about body image or a desire to lose weight.
ARFID can be driven by sensory sensitivity (textures, smells, appearances), anxiety about eating (fear of choking, vomiting, or new foods), or a genuine lack of interest in food. It is significantly more common in neurodivergent children, particularly those with autism and ADHD.
Unlike typical developmental fussy eating, ARFID is persistent and doesn’t resolve with the usual strategies. But with the right support, children with ARFID can make real progress.
Children and families we work with
- Children with autism who eat a very restricted diet
- Children with ADHD whose appetite, focus, or medication affects eating
- Children with sensory processing differences affecting food tolerance
- Children with a formal ARFID diagnosis
- Children with suspected ARFID awaiting assessment
- Families who have been told “they’ll grow out of it” but haven’t
- Children who have lost weight or are nutritionally deficient due to restricted eating
- Children and adolescents of all ages — from toddlers through to teens
How we support neurodivergent feeding
A neuroaffirming approach that respects differences while gently supporting progress.
SOS Approach (Adapted)
The SOS Approach to Feeding, adapted for neurodivergent needs. Gradual, sensory-based steps to help your child feel safer around food — no force, no masking, no expecting neurotypical eating behaviour.
Developmental Understanding
Before working on food, we build a full picture of your child’s sensory profile, neurological differences, and developmental context. This understanding shapes everything that follows.
Whole-Family Support
Parents are part of the process. Feeding difficulties affect the whole family, and we work with you to reduce mealtime stress and build confidence in supporting your child at home.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Where needed, Dr Bujtor collaborates with psychologists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and paediatricians to ensure joined-up, comprehensive support.
Available in-clinic at Springbank Clinic, Sevenoaks, or via telehealth.
Why families trust Dr Bujtor with neurodivergent feeding
- PhD in nutritional psychiatry (gut–brain axis)
- SOS Approach trained — adapted for neurodivergent populations
- Published researcher in feeding and neurodevelopment
- Registered Nutritionist (RNutr) with the AfN
- Trustee of The Feeding Trust
- 20+ years of clinical experience
- Mother who has navigated her own child’s feeding journey
ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) is a recognised feeding and eating disorder where a person consistently avoids or restricts food to the point where it affects their nutrition, growth, or daily life. Unlike typical picky eating, ARFID is persistent, causes significant distress or nutritional consequences, and doesn’t resolve with the usual strategies. It’s not about body image or weight — it’s typically driven by sensory experience, anxiety around food, or a lack of interest in eating.
Yes. A Registered Nutritionist with specialist training in paediatric feeding — like Dr Bujtor — can assess nutritional status, address deficiencies, and use structured therapeutic approaches (such as the SOS Approach) to help expand a child’s diet safely and at their own pace. For children with ARFID, nutritional support and feeding therapy often work alongside psychological input.
Yes. Many autistic children have a limited food repertoire linked to sensory processing differences, need for sameness, or anxiety. Dr Bujtor takes a neuroaffirming approach that respects how your child experiences food while gently supporting them to broaden their range when they’re ready.
Yes. Stimulant medications commonly suppress appetite, which can affect nutritional intake and growth. Dr Bujtor can assess your child’s nutritional status, recommend strategies for maximising intake around medication timing, and ensure key nutrients aren’t being missed.
Absolutely. Complex feeding presentations often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach. Dr Bujtor regularly collaborates with psychologists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and paediatricians to ensure joined-up care.
Yes. While in-clinic sessions at Springbank Clinic in Sevenoaks are ideal for some aspects of feeding work, many families access support via telehealth — including assessment, parent coaching, nutritional review, and follow-up sessions.
This is more common than you might think, and it’s something Dr Bujtor works with regularly. The first step is understanding why your child’s range is so limited — sensory factors, anxiety, medical history, or developmental differences may all play a role. From there, a gradual, no-pressure approach is used to help your child feel safer around new foods.
No. You don’t need an ARFID diagnosis or any other formal diagnosis to access feeding support. Many families come to us while awaiting assessment, or because they’re concerned but unsure whether their child’s eating is typical. Dr Bujtor can help regardless of diagnostic status.
Related organisations
These trusted organisations provide further information and support for families navigating neurodivergent feeding challenges.
“Ready to take the first step?”
Book a discovery call to discuss your child’s feeding and see if this is the right support for your family.
Or contact: enquiries@lifespan-nutrition.co.uk
Springbank Clinic, Sevenoaks, Kent
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