Our services are now being offered via telehealth, as well as in person.
Our services are now being offered via telehealth, as well as in person.
What constitutes an eating disorder? Are eating disorders genetic? Continue reading to find out.
Eating disorders are a common problem only exacerbated in the era of social media. Many people wonder why these disorders develop. A common question that gets asked is, “are eating disorders genetic?”
Eating disorders have long been perceived as behavioral choices. Like other mental health struggles, eating disorders are often shamed. Sufferers deal with anxiety, depression, loneliness, isolation, and PTSD. Eating disorders cause distress to those living with them. They cause relationship and career problems. They also lead to health problems, including gastrointestinal issues, heart complications, cognitive impairment, and osteoporosis. Eating disorders can also hinder development and growth in young people. Severe cases of eating disorders can be fatal. This is why getting proper treatment is vital.
Let us guide you through your options and treatment opportunities. Contact Alternative Options today.
Many people with eating disorders avoid seeking treatment. They fear judgment from others and continue to suffer alone in silence due to the associated stigma. But new research shows an eating disorders genetic link that can offer relief to sufferers of eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder.
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight. This leads to restrictive eating habits, distorted body image, and extreme weight loss. Some people with anorexia may engage in excessive amounts of exercise, laxative use, and purging behaviors.
Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. These episodes are then followed by self-induced vomiting, laxative use, or excessive exercise. People with bulimia often have a distorted body image and an overpowering fear of gaining weight.
Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors (vomiting, laxative use, etc.). Those suffering from binge eating disorder often experience feelings of lack of control, guilt, or shame about their eating behaviors. They may also eat when not even hungry.
Psychiatrist Walter Kaye of the University of Pittsburgh and his colleagues also found a variation on chromosome 1 that was common with anorexia. The region on chromosome 1 contains between 100 and 300 genes. They found three gene candidates that are involved in neural signaling for appetite, depression, and anxiety. They compared gene sequences in anorexic people versus healthy people. They found that women with anorexia had particular sequence variations on two of the three genes.
A shared genetic risk factor in people with binge eating disorder has been found in one 2016 study through the Boston University School of Medicine. Researchers found cytoplasmic FMR1-interacting protein 2 (CYFIP2) to be a major genetic risk factor for binge eating, along with decreased myelination (a process in which the speed of signals transmitted between neurons) being a possible consequence of binge eating. Studies like this suggest that genetic factors can contribute to the development of binge eating disorders. However, more work needs to be done to make the binge eating disorders genetic link clearer.4
An international study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health called the Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative (EDGI) aims to identify more genes that influence a person’s risk of developing eating disorders. This is the largest genetic research study ever.
Although we are close to finding answers about the eating disorders genetic link, if you or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to seek help right away for the best chances of a successful recovery.
Our caring and compassionate team at Alternative Options is here to provide you with structured treatment in a comfortable and therapeutic environment. We also offer support for loved ones and family members. We will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. We will work to ensure you achieve long-term recovery.
Trying to recover from an eating disorder on your own can be scary and difficult. The good news is you don’t have to do this alone. Our compassionate and highly skilled staff at Alternative Options is here for you every step of the way. Your wellness is our top priority. Reach out to us today for more information about our available treatment options.
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