Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by self-imposed restriction of energy intake, leading to a significantly low body weight. Individuals with anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight and exhibit a distorted perception of body image, often failing to recognize the severity of their low weight. This disorder can result in serious physical and psychological health complications, requiring a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, including nutritional support and psychotherapy.
Author and reviewer
Editorial responsibilityReferences and further reading
- Himmerich, H., & Treasure, J. (2024). Anorexia nervosa: diagnostic, therapeutic, and risk biomarkers in clinical practice. Trends in Molecular Medicine, 30(4), 350–360. doi:10.1016/j.molmed.2024.01.002 View source
- Hebebrand, J., Gradl-Dietsch, G., Peters, T., Correll, C. U., & Haas, V. (2024). The Diagnosis and Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa in Childhood and Adolescence. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International, 121(5), 164–174. doi:10.3238/arztebl.m2023.0248 View source
How to cite this entry
CNP (2026). Anorexia Nervosa. In CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board (Eds.), Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology. The Center for Nutritional Psychology.
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