Is bulimia hereditary?

Our exact understanding of the intersection between genetics and eating disorders continues to evolve and there is still a need for more answers and clarity. Some notable research, however hints at the magnitude of this relationship. read more

The genetic research seems to indicate that some people -- mostly, though not all, female -- may have a latent vulnerability to eating disorders, which might never be "turned on" if they weren't exposed to particular influences, just as a predisposition to alcoholism can remain latent unless the person takes a drink. read more

Familial and twin studies have supported a genetic predisposition to eating disorders, with significant linkage on chromosome 10p in Families with Bulimia Nervosa. A 1998 study estimated the heritability of Bulimia to be up to 60 percent, with the remaining variance attributable to the individual-specific environment. read more