Hi Jane - Researchers haven't specifically linked eating disorders and IBS, but they have found that an "insult" to the gut can permanently alter the gut's nervous system and that system's interaction with the brain, and lead to the onset of symptoms.
Claire is right about the Second Brain book - it is a great resource for understanding the big picture of this disorder. There is also info at http://www.firstyearibs.com/day1live.html that explains how an initial gut "insult" can lead to IBS.
I haven't seen eating disorders singled out as a possible insult to the gut (usually it's abdominal surgery, dysentery, food poisoning, etc.) but it certainly seems likely to me that a disorder that so radically affects your GI tract (especially if there is bingeing and purging) could fall into this category. If I find any specific research on this I'll definitely post it.
Hugs to you,
Heather
-------------------- Heather is the Administrator of the IBS Message Boards. She is the author of Eating for IBS and The First Year: IBS, and the CEO of Heather's Tummy Care. Join her IBS Newsletter. Meet Heather on Facebook!
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Re: IBS and eating disorders - probably is a link
