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Can eating disorders cause functional gastrointestinal disorders?
1Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. pieter.janssen@med.kuleuven.be
Neurogastroenterology and Motility
|November 25, 2010
Summary
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are common in eating disorders (EDs) and can persist even after ED recovery. This suggests complex underlying mechanisms beyond the eating disorder itself.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychiatry
- Eating Disorders
Background:
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) affect up to 98% of patients with eating disorders (EDs).
- FGIDs can persist independently of the eating disorder's outcome.
- The mechanisms underlying FGIDs in ED patients require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the persistent nature of FGIDs in patients with eating disorders.
- To discuss the potential mechanisms contributing to FGIDs in the context of EDs.
Main Methods:
- Review and discussion of existing research on FGIDs and EDs.
- Analysis of the interplay between biological, psychosocial, and social factors.
Main Results:
- Altered eating behaviors in EDs are linked to disturbed gastrointestinal sensitivity and motor physiology.
- Psychiatric comorbidities frequently overlap between FGIDs and EDs.
- Established FGIDs can be perpetuated by psychological and physiological disturbances, becoming independent of the initial ED.
Conclusions:
- FGIDs in ED patients likely result from a complex interplay of factors.
- Motor and sensitivity disturbances, along with psychiatric comorbidities, form the basis of FGIDs.
- These disturbances can create a self-perpetuating cycle, leading to persistent FGIDs.
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