Effects of Anorexia Nervosa on Birth Weight
When a woman with anorexia nervosa becomes pregnant, it can significantly impact the health of her unborn child. A study conducted by the UCL Institute of Child Health (ICH) analyzed data from over two million women and found that babies born to mothers with a history of anorexia nervosa tend to have a lower birth weight compared to those born to mothers without a history of the disorder. This condition, known as low birth weight, is not only a concern in terms of the immediate health of the infant but also increases the risk of infant mortality.
Weakened Immune System
Individuals with anorexia nervosa often exhibit surprising resistance to viral or bacterial infections, as their immune system undergoes temporary adaptation. However, prolonged anorexia nervosa can lead to compromised white blood cell function in approximately 50% of cases. White blood cells play a crucial role in fighting off infections, so this dysfunction ultimately weakens the individual’s immune system, rendering them more vulnerable to illnesses and diseases. It is common for people with anorexia nervosa to develop secondary conditions such as leukopenia (low white blood cells), anemia (low iron), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets).