Eating Disorders · Texas behavioral health news
Scientists Found a Hormone Clue That Could Help Explain Why Anorexia Relapse Happens - Women's Health
Eating Disorders (Google News) · July 23, 2026
In plain language
Recent research has identified a connection between two hunger-related substances, a hormone called ghrelin and a protein called LEAP2, and the high rate of anorexia relapse. When people with anorexia undergo treatment, their bodies experience shifts in these levels as they gain weight. Scientists found that patients whose protein levels spiked again were more likely to struggle with their recovery after leaving the hospital. This discovery helps explain how the brain and body communicate during healing and could lead to more personalized treatment plans beyond just tracking a patient's weight.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Researchers identified a link between hunger hormones and the likelihood of anorexia relapse.
- The protein LEAP2 blocks the hormone that tells the brain it is time to eat.
- Patients whose LEAP2 levels rose again after treatment were more likely to relapse.
- Nutritional restoration helps the brain relearn how to feel rewarded by food.
- New biomarkers could help doctors track recovery success using biology rather than just weight.
- Up to half of people treated for anorexia may experience a relapse within ten years.
Scientists Found a Hormone Clue That Could Help Explain Why Anorexia Relapse Happens Women's Health
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