What condition is characterized by an avoidance of certain food groups to the point of malnutrition?

The condition characterized by an avoidance of certain food groups to the point of malnutrition is Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). This disorder is particularly noted for its symptoms that include a marked aversion to particular foods, a lack of interest in eating, or concerns about the safety of foods. In children, ARFID often results in significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and psychosocial difficulties, as their selective eating can lead to inadequate intake of essential nutrients.

This condition differs from other disorders; for instance, anorexia nervosa involves an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to severe restriction of food intake, but not specifically due to selectivity or avoidance of foods. Bulimia nervosa, on the other hand, is characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, which again doesn't align with the definition of ARFID. Binge eating disorder involves frequent episodes of consuming large amounts of food without compensatory behaviors and is also distinct from the selective avoidance seen in ARFID.

In summary, ARFID is a specific condition where the avoidance of certain food groups can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies and health complications, making it the most accurate answer to the question.