Eating Disorders · Texas behavioral health news
Researchers uncover hormone link between gut and brain in anorexia nervosa - Medical Xpress
Eating Disorders (Google News) · July 9, 2026
In plain language
Researchers have discovered a connection between a hormone called LEAP2 and anorexia nervosa. This hormone, produced in the liver and gut, appears to block the body’s normal hunger signals and may influence how the brain controls impulses. People with the highest levels of LEAP2 were found to be at a greater risk of relapsing after treatment. These findings suggest that anorexia has both physical and mental roots, which could eventually lead to better testing and new medical treatments for the disorder.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- The hormone LEAP2 acts as a hunger blocker and is found at high levels in people with active anorexia.
- Patients with high LEAP2 levels are more likely to relapse following treatment for their eating disorder.
- Higher levels of this hormone are linked to difficulties with impulse control and regulating blood sugar.
- LEAP2 may help explain how some patients can physically tolerate severe underfeeding for long periods.
- Testing for this hormone could help doctors identify which patients need extra support to prevent relapse.
Researchers uncover hormone link between gut and brain in anorexia nervosa Medical Xpress
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