Serotonin levels might play an important role in how eating disorders develop and how they can best be treated. MelindaKarth explains.
Unfortunately, we know very little about serotonin's role in avoidant restrictive food intake disorder and pica.
Nonetheless, pharmacology studies have shown that serotonin medications reduce ARFID and pica symptoms, possibly by decreasing anxiety about meals and food, as well as compulsiveness.The Challenges of Making Conclusions About Serotonin and Eating DisordersDespite the promise of these findings, it is too soon to make definitive conclusions about serotonin's role in EDs.
One reason for this is that we lack the technology to analyze specific molecular functions in people with EDs. Animal models of EDs can clarify some of these mysteries, but only to a certain extent. We need more precise technologies to fully understand the molecular aspects of EDs. Additionally, because most research studies observe serotonin in people currently ill with or recovered from an ED, it is difficult to determine what serotonin levels were likedevelopmentthe ED change the person's serotonin levels? Malnutrition and other side effects of an ED can also make studying serotonin difficult.
This shouldn't be discouraging, though. While we're still struggling to find the best ways to study serotonin in EDs, the limited evidence we do have has demonstrated that serotonin is likely one of the most important chemicals involved in ED development and its persistence. This alone can help guide future pharmacological treatments for EDs, making the future of ED treatment bright.2)Jonnakuty, C., & Gragnoli, C. .
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The Mets Are Having an Extremely Un-Mets SeasonThey’re overachieving their way to the playoffs — and having a great time doing it.
Read more »
Your Eating Disorder Is Not Your FaultHere are some of the unique genetic risk factors that may predispose someone to develop an eating disorder—and why it's time to stop feeling guilty and ashamed
Read more »
Care and Feeding: I’m Totally Stumped by How to Handle Playground BulliesI know my daughter is probably not as traumatized by these kids as I am.
Read more »
Shaina Loew-Banayan’s New Book Is a Brief and Beautiful Account of a Life Spent in KitchensVogue spoke to Shaina Loew-Banayan about the feat of writing a book while running a restaurant, the essay collection that helped them gain confidence in their writing, and the newly recovered sense of joy that accompanies their approach to food.
Read more »
How to Spot the Signs of an Eating Disorder in Your ChildWhen it comes to eating disorders, early detection is key - as is early intervention.
Read more »