Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids and anorexia nervosa: is there a link?
There has been little research examining the link between dietary fat intake and the symptoms and consequences of anorexia nervosa. In this selective literature review, the potential significance of poly-unsaturated fatty acids is discussed. It is hypothesised that dietary restriction causes essential fatty acid deficiencies and poly-unsaturated fatty acid abnormalities, which might contribute to the physical and mental symptoms and the maintenance of the disorder. The examination of epidemiology, symptoms, co-morbidity, and consequences suggest that poly-unsaturated fatty acid and phospholipid abnormalities are significant in anorexia nervosa. This will be an important area for future research, and may lead to the development of new interventions.
Ayton
Agnes K
AK
Eating Disorders Unit, Huntercombe Stafford Hospital, Ivetsey Bank, WheatonAston, Staffordshire, ST19 9QT UK. agnes.ayton@fshc.co.uk
D000856:Anorexia Nervosa / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D015897:Comorbidity; D004042:Dietary Fats, Unsaturated; D005228:Fatty Acids, Essential / Q000172:deficiency*; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3; D005843:Geography; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000453:epidemiology; D007246:Infertility / Q000209:etiology; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D015995:Prevalence
D004042:Dietary Fats, Unsaturated; D005228:Fatty Acids, Essential; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3