Anorexia is a dangerous and potentially deadly eating disorder that has a devastating effect on the body.

A new study also highlights the impact that lack of adequate nutrition can have on the brain.

Based on a total of 1,648 female brain scans (685 with anorexia), collected from 22 different countries, the researchers found a decrease in cortex thickness, subcortical volumes, and cortical area in people with anorexia.

Basically, the brain "shrinks" in a way.

In terms of sample size, the study shows how important it is to treat the condition as early as possible in its development.

"For this study, we have been working intensively for several years with research teams around the world.

"The ability to combine thousands of brain scan results from people with anorexia has allowed us to study the changes that can characterize this disorder in much more detail," said psychologist Esther Walton of the University of Bath in the UK.

Although scientists are not sure what causes anorexia, we know much more about its effects.

Millions of people around the world are affected by it.

It is one of the leading causes of death associated with mental health problems.

As more data comes from future studies, scientists will be able to better understand what exactly causes this decrease in brain volume in people with anorexia and some of the neurological mechanisms behind it.

For now, it is clear that the sooner treatment is sought and offered, the better.

The same techniques used here can also be used to measure the effectiveness of treatment for brain damage, writes Science Alert.

/ KP