A process known as deep brain stimulation could provide some relief to those suffering from anorexia nervosa, says a new study from researchers at the Krembil Neuroscience Centre and University Health Network in Canada.
In a small trial, three patients were able to effectively gain weight and reportedly had overall improvements in mood and lifestyle after receiving the treatment, reports the BBC. Six women between the ages of 24 and 57 were involved in the trial.
The patients had tiny electrodes implanted into their brain that gave a small electrical pulse to the area of the brain governing mood and anxiety. According to lead researcher Dr. Nir Lipsman, the results are promising:
“Anorexia nervosa has many layers and we need to address the root causes. In many people with the condition this is related to difficulties in regulating mood and anxiety.”
“So we wanted to see if influencing this area of the brain could help people with the condition,” he said. “We think deep brain stimulation may have helped people view their illness in a different way and meant they felt more encouraged to engage in other therapy.”
A wider clinical trial is now in the planning phases, the researchers say.
by RTT Staff Writer
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