I'm convinced there are multiple causes of anorexia – psychological, biological, even environmental causes. I know my sister exhibited every one they ever wrote about!
Here are some of the biological causes that research claims may cause eating disorders.
One study (Archives of General Psychiatry 2006; 63:305-312) claims that genetic factors account for more than half the risk of developing anorexia nervosa. We assume that, at least in part, we owe our personality and temperament to our genes. It also appears that some personality types, such as obsessive compulsive, are more vulnerable to eating disorders than others. Research also points out that genetic factors predispose some people to anxiety and perfectionism. These people also have more than there share of eating disorders.
In fact, people with a mother or sister who has anorexia nervosa are 12 times more likely than others with no family history of that disorder, to develop it.
Another piece of research (Journal of Biological Psychiatry; July 2005.) suggests that women who develop anorexia nervosa have excess activity in the brain's dopamine receptors which regulate pleasure. This explains why many feel driven to lose weight but don't feel good about it.
The fact that I think is particularly critical is that once a person starts to starve herself, that behavior in itself alters her brain chemistry and prolongs the disorder. Not eating enough can activate brain chemicals that produce feelings of euphoria negating any anxiety and depression. One theory is that people with eating disorders are using food to self-medicate painful feelings.
I have never thought about that possibility. Any comments?
To your best health.
Ruthan Brodsky
P.S. I am starting to host teleseminars and radio programs on staying healthy as you age. Let me know if you're interested and I'll forward the information about the calls back to you.
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