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Waking up early could be linked to eating disorder, scientists find Credits: Social Media
By Tom Llewellyn

Waking up early could be linked to eating disorder, scientists find

By Tom Llewellyn

A new study has found a genetic link between anorexia nervosa, one of the most common eating disorders in the US, and waking up early.

According to statistics, over 16 million people worldwide suffer from eating disorders, with at least 1.6% of the US population experiencing the mental health condition firsthand. Now, a new study has found an unusual genetic link between one of the most common eating disorders, anorexia nervosa, and being an early riser.

On March 26th, Spain Will Move The Clock Forward One Hour To Adapt To Daylight Saving Time.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 24: A digital clock marks 2:00 a.m. on March 24, 2022, in Madrid, Spain. In the early hours of Saturday, March 26 to Sunday, March 27, 02:00 hours will be 03:00 hours. Since 82 years ago, with the arrival of spring, the last Saturday of March the time is changed to adapt the time to sunlight and save energy, both for individuals and for public administrations, this change also brings an improvement in the mood of people to take advantage of more daylight hours. (Photo By Carlos Lujan/Europa Press via Getty Images)

Eating disorders impact millions of Americans each and every day of their lives, with one of the most common disorders being anorexia nervosa  more commonly referred to as just anorexia.

Anorexia is characterized by an abnormally low body weight, a fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of weight, with sufferers often taking drastic measures to restrict the amount of food that they eat.

Whilst weve known for some time that anorexia nervosa was associated with your internal body clock and sleep patterns, scientists have struggled to find genetic links between the two: until now.

A new study, published earlier this month on the JAMA Open Network for Psychiatry, has reportedly found a genetic link between the eating disorder and morning chronotype  which is to say going to bed and waking up early.

Interestingly, the association was found to be two-way, meaning that being an early riser could increase the risk of developing the disorder, and equally, having the disorder could lead to earlier rises.

The team was led by researchers from the Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, with support from scientists of the British University College London and the Uruguayan University of the Republic.

They analyzed data from over 16,000 patients who suffered from anorexia nervosa and came to the conclusion that in contrast to other metabo-psychiatric diseases, anorexia nervosa is distinctly a morningness eating disorder.

As many as 62% and 54% of people diagnosed with an eating disorder also have an anxiety disorder and a mood disorder such as depression, respectively the study also reported.

Lead author Hannah Wilcox reaffirmed that the clinical implications of our new findings are currently unclear but added how our results could direct future investigations into circadian-based therapies for anorexia nervosa prevention and treatment.

Anorexia, Woman
Anorexia, Woman (Photo By BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images)

Ways to support a loved one suffering from anorexia nervosa

Scientific research and our view of eating disorders in society have taken fantastic steps forward in recent decades, in partial thanks to social media platforms spreading awareness.

However, it can still be extremely difficult to figure out the best ways to help support a family member or loved one who is suffering from eating disorders like anorexia:

  • Recognize neither you nor they are to blame  Eating disorders are the result of multiple factors occurring at once, some of which are completely out of your control. Dont make it out to be a matter of willpower or choice, it’s something to work through together so don’t start playing a blame game.
  • Keep them involved  They might not want to join in activities, but dont make them feel isolated by forgetting them, even something as simple as an invite can make them feel valued.
  • Try to build self-esteem  Try to build their confidence in themselves, knowing that you are going to support them no matter what can go a long way for someones mental health.
  • Learn to listen, not just talk  Whilst youll want to say anything and everything in your head, it can be just as important to remain listening.
  • Educate yourself on disorders  Learn about the common traits, treatments, and support groups in your local areas.
  • Externalize the disorder  Try to talk about the disorder from an outside perspective, it can help people from feeling like they are being criticized if the disorder lasts a prolonged time.
  • Encourage professional support  No matter how much you educate yourself, help from medical and psychology experts will always be there and you should take advantage of the resources available to help groups.
Bryan Bixler is suffering from anorexia and runs through a spectrum of emotions while battles for h
Bryan Bixler is suffering from anorexia and runs through a spectrum of emotions while battles for his life March 10, 2009 (Photo by Mark Boster/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

If you or someone you know needs support, you can call NEDA on (800) 931-2237.