A multinational team of researchers, including neurologists from the University of Southern California, investigated how anorexia affects brain structure. The findings appear in a peer-reviewed journal article published by Biological Psychiatry.
The study analyzed MRI data from 1,648 women, among whom 685 had anorexia nervosa. Results showed that during the illness, the thickness and surface area of the cerebral cortex, as well as the volume of subcortical brain regions, declined. These changes were notable even when other mental health conditions were considered.
The observed brain-volume reduction was two to four times larger than reductions typically seen in depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and several other psychiatric disorders. A likely explanation is inadequate nutrition during the illness, which can disrupt brain development and maintenance.
Importantly, data from the study suggest that brain volume can rebound with effective treatment. As individuals move toward recovery, the degree of brain-volume loss appears to lessen, indicating that many of the changes may not be permanent. This finding points to the brain’s capacity to recover when appropriate medical and psychological care is provided.
Overall, the results emphasize the significance of early recognition and comprehensive treatment for anorexia nervosa. Restoring nutritional status and supporting mental health can contribute to structural brain recovery, underscoring the resilience of the brain with proper intervention. Researchers emphasize that continued follow-up is essential to understand the long-term trajectory of brain changes after recovery begins.