Study of Gut Microbiota in Children and Adolescents with Eating Disorders Compared to Healthy Peers

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring whether behavioral and psychological factors are linked to the types and functions of bacteria in the intestines of children and adolescents with eating disorders ED. The study focuses on differences in gut microbiota between young patients with ED and healthy peers, dietary and lifestyle influences on gut bacteria, and whether these factors can predict treatment response after one year. It also examines gut microbiota differences among various ED subtypes including anorexia nervosa and avoidantrestrictive food intake disorder ARFID. The study involves two groups children and adolescents recently diagnosed with an eating disorder and healthy participants matched by age and sex. Participants with ED will complete lifestyle and psychological questionnaires, undergo body measurements, and provide blood and stool samples at the start and after one year. Healthy participants will provide similar data only at baseline. Stool samples will be analyzed for bacteria types and functions using advanced DNA sequencing techniques. Participants will share detailed medical, psychiatric, and lifestyle histories through interviews and questionnaires. Researchers will measure body composition, blood markers related to hormones and inflammation, and analyze stool for gut bacteria and metabolites. Psychological tests will assess eating disorder symptoms and related mental health conditions. The main outcomes measured are gut microbiota composition and function at baseline, with follow-up after one year for patients. The study aims to improve understanding of gut-related factors in eating disorders to support personalized treatment approaches.

A Study of the Intestinal Microbiota in Children and Adolescents With Eating Disorders. A Perspective From Psychoneuroimmunology