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Early risers may face a higher risk of developing anorexia nervosa, according to a new study published in JAMA Network Open. The research sheds light on the relationship between waking early and the prevalence of this eating disorder, characterized by low weight, food restriction, and distorted body image.
Unlike other psychiatric disorders that tend to manifest more in the evening, such as depression or schizophrenia, the study highlighted that anorexia nervosa appears to be associated with early rising. This unique finding implicates a link between the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, and the development of this disorder.
Conducted by an international team led by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) investigators, the study revealed a reciprocal relationship between genes linked to anorexia nervosa and those connected to the “morning chronotype,” characterized by early waking and bedtime.
Further examination into the connection between anorexia nervosa and insomnia unveiled a genetic predisposition to the disorder, indicating a higher risk of experiencing insomnia symptoms.
Hassan S Dashti, an assistant investigator at MGH, highlighted the significance of these findings, noting that anorexia nervosa appears to be a morning-oriented disorder. This contrasts with the evening-based nature of several other psychiatric conditions.
Anorexia nervosa poses a challenge in terms of treatment, with existing therapies exhibiting relapse rates as high as 52%. Moreover, the cause of the disease remains unclear. Given its status as having one of the highest mortality rates among psychiatric illnesses, the study underscores the critical need for more research into preventive strategies and treatments.
Lead author Hannah Wilcox, a researcher at MGH, emphasized the potential impact of these findings on future investigations. While the clinical implications are not yet fully understood, this study may pave the way for exploring circadian-based therapies for preventing and treating anorexia nervosa.
With the disease’s severity and the limited effectiveness of current treatments, this research offers hope for innovative approaches to address anorexia nervosa’s complexities and challenges in the quest for better prevention and management strategies.
