Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Understanding anorexia’s grip on the brain could unlock new therapies
Thirteen years ago, Grace Wade was on the brink of death, battling anorexia nervosa. The fear of eating more felt more immediate than the reality of her heart failing, she says. That paradox – continuing to starve yourself despite the consequences – is why anorexia nervosa remains one of the most challenging mental health conditions to treat.
Grace (now fully recovered) has investigated the wave of research that is looking to the brain for answers, uncovering changes that may explain why eating can become so aversive. These insights are already inspiring potential new therapies, from brain stimulation to experimental medications, that could one day shift treatment outcomes.
Read her story: newscientist.com/article/2528588-understanding-anorexias-grip-on-the-brain-could-unlock-new-therapies
Understanding anorexia’s grip on the brain could unlock new therapies
Thirteen years ago, Grace Wade was on the brink of death, battling anorexia nervosa. The fear of eating more felt more immediate than the reality of her heart failing, she says. That paradox – continuing to starve yourself despite the consequences – is why anorexia nervosa remains one of the most challenging mental health conditions to treat.
Grace (now fully recovered) has investigated the wave of research that is looking to the brain for answers, uncovering changes that may explain why eating can become so aversive. These insights are already inspiring potential new therapies, from brain stimulation to experimental medications, that could one day shift treatment outcomes.
Read her story: newscientist.com/article/2528588-understanding-anorexias-grip-on-the-brain-could-unlock-new-therapies
