Exploring the role of gut microbiota in anorexia nervosa

Gut Microbiota Alterations in Anorexia Nervosa - Paving the Way for Personalized Prebiotic Treatment Strategies

Observational Norwegian University of Life Sciences · NCT06144905

This study looks at how the bacteria in the gut might be linked to anorexia nervosa in women aged 16-50 with a low body weight to see if it can help improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment180 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 50 Years
SexFemale
SponsorNorwegian University of Life Sciences Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ås, Ås)
Trial IDNCT06144905 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between gut microbiota and anorexia nervosa (AN) in female patients aged 16-50 with a BMI under 18.5. Participants will receive standard care treatment while their microbiota composition and function are analyzed to identify potential biological factors associated with AN. The study aims to enhance understanding of the condition and explore novel treatment strategies that could be integrated into existing care without adding complexity. The findings may provide insights into the biological underpinnings of AN and inform future therapeutic approaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 16-50 with a BMI under 18.5 who meet the ICD-10 criteria for anorexia nervosa and are currently referred for specialized inpatient nutritional treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or recent antibiotic use may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for anorexia nervosa by targeting gut microbiota.

How similar studies have performed: While the exploration of gut microbiota in mental health is a growing field, this specific approach in anorexia nervosa is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria AN group

1. Sex: Female
2. Age: 16-50 years
3. BMI: \<18.5 kg/m2
4. fulfilling ICD-10 criteria for AN
5. currently referred to specialized inpatient nutritional treatment for AN
6. able to understand the Norwegian questionnaires.

Exclusion Criteria AND group:

1. history of inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or GI tract surgery;
2. treatment with oral antibiotics the past two months
3. high intake of probiotic supplements over the past two months.

Inclusion criteria control group

1. Sex: Female
2. Age: 16-50 years
3. BMI: \>= 18.5 \& \< 27
4. able to understand the Norwegian questionnaires.

Exclusion Criteria AND group:

1. history of inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or GI tract surgery;
2. treatment with oral antibiotics the past two months
3. high intake of probiotic supplements over the past two months.

Where this trial is running

Ås, Ås

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Anorexia NervosaMental Health IssueMicrobiotaDietGastrointestinal Problems
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.