Mothering Through ARFID & Perthes Disease

Motherhood brings its fair share of challenges, but for some mums, navigating the world of feeding their children can come with unique complexities. In this episode of the Super Mumma Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Michelle about her experience with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) & Perthes Disease, from the mum perspective.

Understanding ARFID

ARFID is an eating disorder that goes beyond just being a ‘picky eater.’ It can be rooted in sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or a lack of interest in food, making it incredibly difficult for individuals to meet their nutritional needs. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID isn’t driven by body image concerns but by deep rooted food related anxieties.

The Emotional Toll on Mums

One of the biggest struggles Michelle highlighted was the pressure that comes with feeding children, particularly in a society that places so much emphasis on ‘perfect’ nutrition. There’s a lot of mum guilt that creeps in when your child has a limited diet or refuses to eat the foods others expect them to.

Michelle spoke about the emotional impact of this and the importance of reframing our expectations around food. She reminded us that ensuring our children feel safe and supported around mealtimes is more important than forcing them to eat a ‘perfect’ plate of food.

Finding Ways to Support Our Children

As a mum, Michelle has had to approach feeding with a deep level of understanding and patience. She shared some of the ways she’s adapted her approach:

• Removing Pressure: Encouraging exploration of food without forcing consumption.

• Small Steps: Making tiny changes rather than overwhelming a child with new foods.

• Understanding Sensory Needs: Recognising that certain textures, smells, or appearances can be overwhelming.

She also touched on how we, as mums, need to be kinder to ourselves. Supporting a child with ARFID (or any feeding challenges) is about playing the long game, not finding an instant fix.

You’re Not Alone

One of the most powerful takeaways from our conversation was the reminder that no mum is alone in this journey. Whether you’re dealing with ARFID, another eating challenge, or just the everyday struggles of motherhood, there is support and understanding out there.

To follow Michelle on Instagram, Also take a listen to her podcast 3 Mums 1 Mission ARFID

For more support with ARFID, Michelle suggests Beat Eating Disorders Charity 

For more support with Perthes Disease  visit Perthes Kids