Nutritional & Microbiome Imbalances in Anorexia Nervosa

Intuitive Nutrition with Clare Seagrave

Anorexia nervosa is a eating disorder with psychological, emotional, and biological roots.

While it is often viewed through the lens of mental health, emerging research shows that nutritional imbalances, gut microbiome disturbances, and hormone fluctuations can all play a contributing role in both the development and persistence of anorexia. This handout outlines how these physical imbalances may affect appetite, mood, and behaviour.

Nutritional Imbalances That May Contribute to Anorexia

Zinc Deficiency

• Reduces appetite and alters taste perception.
• Supports hormone regulation, especially thyroid and reproductive hormones.
• Linked with heightened anxiety and depression.

Vitamin B12 & B6 Deficiency

• Impairs neurotransmitter production (serotonin, dopamine).
• May cause fatigue, low mood, and cognitive rigidity.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Deficiency

• Affects brain health and inflammation regulation.
• Associated with obsessive thoughts and poor emotional resilience.

Iron Deficiency

• Leads to fatigue, irritability, and concentration difficulties.
• Particularly important during adolescence.

Hormonal Imbalances & Anorexia

Hormone fluctuations, especially during key life transitions like puberty, perimenopause, or high-stress periods, can influence appetite, body image, and emotional stability. Dysregulation of hormones such as cortisol, estrogen, progesterone, leptin, and thyroid hormones may:

• Disrupt hunger and fullness cues
• Increase anxiety and mood swings
• Contribute to compulsive exercise or restrictive eating behaviours

Restoring hormonal balance is an important part of long-term recovery in anorexia.

Gut Microbiome Disruption & Anorexia

Gut-Brain Axis Disruption

• The microbiome communicates with the brain via the vagus nerve and neurotransmitters.
• A disrupted microbiome may impact mood, anxiety, and appetite regulation.

Low Microbial Diversity

• Often observed in individuals with anorexia.
• Can increase inflammation and contribute to digestive discomfort.

Low Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) Production

• SCFAs like butyrate are critical for gut and mental health.
• Poor diet and microbiome health may reduce SCFA levels.

Overgrowths (SIBO, Candida)

• Cause bloating, nausea, and food intolerances.
• Can create aversive reactions to eating, reinforcing restrictive patterns.

Do These Imbalances Cause Anorexia?

While anorexia is primarily a psychological disorder, these physiological factors may:

• Trigger disordered eating in vulnerable individuals.
• Reinforce restrictive behaviours through physical discomfort.
• Worsen mood, anxiety, and food aversions.

Action Steps

• Consider nutrient testing, hormone panels, and microbiome assessments. Contact Intuitive Nutrition Clinic for details.
• Support re-nourishment with key nutrients and probiotics/prebiotics where tolerated.
• Collaborate with mental health professionals for integrated care. Hypnotherapy is a powerful modality for this.
• Use gentle, gut-supportive foods during recovery to minimise digestive discomfort.

For educational use only. Always refer to a qualified practitioner for diagnosis and treatment.

Contact Clare @Intuitive Nutrition Clinic on 0272 791 786 or www.intuitivenutrition.co.nz