Anorexia is at least partly a metabolic disorder and not just psychiatric as previously thought, new research suggests. The genetic basis of anorexia nervosa overlaps with metabolic, lipid and body measurement traits, according to researchers. “But our study shows metabolic differences may also contribute to the development of the disorder. Genetic factors associated with anorexia also influence physical activity, which could explain the tendency for people with anorexia to be highly active, the research indicates. Researchers combined data collected by the Anorexia Nervosa Genetics Initiative and the Eating Disorders Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium.

Source: The Irish Times July 15, 2019 20:03 UTC