Gut bacteria and eating disorder symptoms study

Researchers are investigating whether changes in gut bacteria (the helpful microbes living in your digestive system) play a role in anorexia nervosa and the anxiety or depression that often come with it. This study will compare the gut bacteria of people hospitalized for anorexia with healthy volunteers to understand how these bacteria might affect both physical health and mental symptoms.

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that affects not only how people eat, but also their mental health. Recent research suggests that gut bacteria may influence both nutrition and mood, but we don't yet know how changes in these bacteria contribute to anorexia or its emotional symptoms. This study aims to fill that gap.