Metabolic bioenergy homeostatic disruption: a cause of anorexia nervosa

• Published in: Medical hypotheses Vol. 56; no. 4; pp. 454 - 461
• Main Authors: Naisberg, Y., Modai, I., Weizman, A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2001
• Subjects: Adipose Tissue - metabolism; Anorexia Nervosa - etiology; Anorexia Nervosa - metabolism; Appetite - physiology; Body Image; Digestive System Physiological Phenomena; Energy Metabolism; Homeostasis; Humans; Nutrition Disorders - metabolism; Regional Blood Flow
• ISSN: 0306-9877; 1532-2777
• DOI: 10.1054/mehy.2000.1199

We believe anorexia nervosa is the result of a disruption in bioenergy homeostasis induced by lipid dysregulation. This disruption has two major determinants: (1) a biological predisposition to primary multihormonal disharmony linked to post-pubertal growth and development; and (2) an acquired abnormal lipid-induced loop operation precipitated by inappropriate diet. We present a step-by-step model describing the cascade of disorders that culminates in anorexia nervosa: defective digestion and absorption of essential fatty acids; diversion of lipids from adipose cells into bloodstream; defective carbohydrate and lipid metabolism which modifies the blood brain barrier; neuroendocrine membrane alteration causing severe endocrine impairment; changes in the negative feedback mechanism which escalate the body’s use of bioenergy; derangement of the appetite center which causes a constant sensation of satiety; replacement of the correct body image with the premorbid one that encourages poor judgement concerning food intake and self-support. The loop-like nature of this mechanism perpetuates the disease.