New research in the area of genetics has led to the discovery that genetic tendencies contribute to eating disorders. This does not mean that environmental factors, like thinness-obsessed culture, do not play some part in the development of these disorders.
There is evidence that one has a higher risk of developing an eating disorder if a relative has one and an even higher risk if it is a first degree relative.
The studies have shown that anorexia and bulimia are statistically more prevalent among family members. Studies on twins also give some indication that there may be a genetic component that preconditions a teenager toward eating disorders.
This genetic trait may have always been around, but it activated by the severe dieting highly encouraged and promoted in the society.
And it is hard to separate it genetic and environmental factors when it comes to causality since they are always in a pattern of interacting.
Cultural pressure, particularly for females, to be thin has contributed to an increased in dieting, and dieting is still at the top of the list as a risk for developing and eating disorder.
It is likely that genes play a role in the perpetuation of eating disorder behaviors once they have begun, making them more neurochemically rewarding for those with certain genes.
Researchers have discovered that purging, starving, and compulsive exercise all affect brain chemistry and that certain brain chemistry may lead to these behaviors.
For example the neurotransmitter serotonin is reduced in anorexia nervosa; reduced serotonin activity persists even after recovery.
Serotonin is a biogenic monoamine and an important neurotransmitter in the central and peripheral nervous system, where it plays a role in several behavioral functions, including mood, sleep cycles, aggression, appetite and learning.
Eating disorder and genetic
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