ARFID, Picky Eating & Autism Spectrum Nutrition

ARFID, Picky Eating & Autism Spectrum Nutrition Support

At Shift Nutrition, Lily Barrett, Registered Dietitian in Vancouver, BC, provides specialized nutrition counselling for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), picky eating, and feeding challenges associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We understand mealtimes can be stressful for both children and families—and we’re here to help you navigate these challenges with compassion and expertise.

Our Approach: Intuitive Eating & Gentle Nutrition for Picky Eaters

Our work is grounded in intuitive eating principles and gentle nutrition, meeting your child (and your family) where you are right now.

We believe:

  • Safe, gradual exposure to new foods supports lasting progress.

  • Forcing or pressuring children to eat can backfire; instead, we build trust and confidence with positive, supportive strategies.

  • Families deserve guidance that respects sensory preferences, medical needs, and cultural food traditions.

Support for ARFID & Autism-Related Eating Challenges

Our services focus on helping children and families with:

  • ARFID, including extreme pickiness, food aversions, and restricted eating patterns

  • Sensory sensitivities that impact eating

  • Difficulty accepting new foods or food textures

  • Nutritional gaps or growth concerns related to limited food intake

  • Family mealtime struggles that cause stress or conflict

Collaborative, Family-Centered Care

You know your child best. That’s why we work closely with you to create individualized strategies that honor your family’s needs, routines, and goals. Together, we can:

  • Identify patterns and triggers behind picky or avoidant eating

  • Develop personalized plans for safe, step-by-step food exploration

  • Reduce mealtime battles and create a more positive eating environment

Safe, Gentle, and Sustainable Changes

Our goal is not to “fix” your child, but to support them in feeling safe and confident around food. We aim to:

  • Expand food variety without overwhelm or coercion

  • Ensure nutritional needs are met in ways your child can tolerate

  • Celebrate every small step forward toward a healthier relationship with food

Get the support you need.

If you’re struggling with ARFID, extreme picky eating, or feeding challenges on the autism spectrum, we’re here to help you and your child build a more peaceful and nourishing relationship with food.

Get started and schedule a free call or your first session with our dietitian specialist below.

 

Ready to start your journey with me?

If you think this is right for you (or maybe unsure if it is) click below to book either a free consult call or your first session!