What causes eating disorders?

Eating DO: The specific causes are unknown. It is however believed to be combination of biological (such as genetic predisposition) , psychological (such as self-image distortions), &/or environmental factors (such as social isolation, early maltreatment, cultural, peer pressure) . As i tell my patients, "genetics loads the gun, environment pulls the trigger".

Biological base: In my practice, the majority of patients with eating disorders have bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, so a similar anxiety disorder. The majority also have had some form of physical or sexual molestation or abuse. In my opinion, the best treatments focus on the causes. Biologically based causes respond well to medications, and the psychological damage responds to psychotherapy.