Heightened Awareness on ARFID Disorder in Quebec

In recent days, heightened awareness regarding the Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) has emerged in Quebec. Known for its impact on individuals who consume only a limited range of foods, this disorder challenges many, particularly young children, in the region.

Marie-Pierre Gagnon Girouard, a psychologist, discussed ARFID on a radio segment with host Marie-Eve Tremblay. Gagnon Girouard outlined that while food neophobia—a fear of trying new foods—is common among children, it typically diminishes over time. However, for certain youths, this habituation does not occur, leading to the development of ARFID.

The discussion on this disorder comes at a time when Quebec schools are facing other food-related issues. Notably, Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois from Québec Solidaire has been addressing the topic of providing free meals in schools, highlighting concerns about students going to school hungry.

The conversation around ARFID and related food challenges was also part of a broader dialogue aired on other societal issues, from fraud concerns during special online sales periods discussed by François Charron, to the landscape of radio oncology as explored by experts such as Israel Fortin and Sandie Oberoi.