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Updated: Jun 23, 2025

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Published on: March 19, 2014
Role of Endogenous Opioids in the Pathophysiology of Obesity and Eating Disorders
Sylvana Stephano Zuniga1, Marcela Rodriguez Flores1, Adriana Albu2
1Obesity and Eating Disorders Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Tlalpan, Mexico.
Abstract:
This second chapter in our trilogy reviews and critically appraises the scientific evidence for the role of endogenous opioid system (EOS) activity in the onset and progression of both obesity and eating disorders. Defining features of normative eating and maladaptive eating behaviors are discussed as a foundation. We review the scientific literature pertaining to the predisposing risk factors and pathophysiology for obesity and eating disorders. Research targeting the association between obesity, disordered eating, and psychiatric comorbidities is reviewed. We conclude by discussing the involvement of endogenous opioids in neurobiological and behavior traits, and the clinical evidence for the role of the EOS in obesity and eating disorders.
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