Author: Maryam Ayres
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
The genes responsible for the development of these diseases are unlocked during puberty ...
American experts have found a scientific explanation for the development of eating disorders among girls just at puberty.
The results of earlier studies suggested that the appearance of eating disorders is due not only to social patterns and fashion stereotypes, but also to genetic factors.
The scientific work of psychology professor Kelly Clamp and colleagues at the University of Michigan confirmed these assumptions and even proved that the sex hormone estradiol is to blame for eating disorders.
Researchers suggest that the genes responsible for the development of these diseases are unlocked during puberty.
The reason for the change in eating habits and preferences is the increased level of estradiol, which is the main form of the female sex hormone estrogen.
Estradiol is a sex hormone that belongs to the group of estrogens and is the most active of them. It is secreted in the adrenal glands, ovarian follicles and placenta in pregnant women. In men, it is synthesized in the seminal vesicles, adrenal glands and tissues in the body.
It is responsible for the growth and development of the reproductive system in women and affects bone formation.
Its effect on the eating behavior of young women was established after careful analysis of data on eating disorders and estradiol levels in 200 pairs of twins aged between 10 and 15 years.
Scientists are adamant that the higher the level of sex hormone, the stronger the genes that trigger eating disorders.
It is not yet clear which genes influence eating habits, but scientists believe it is only a matter of time before they are identified.
The study's authors explain that knowledge of the effects of estradiol will help develop therapy and prevention for girls suffering from or at risk of eating disorders.
Detailed results of the study are published in the latest issue of the specialized journal Psychological Medicine.