Eating in the absence of hunger but not loss of control behaviors are associated with 16p11.2 deletions.

For: All,

This study shows that children and adults with a proximal 16p11.2 deletion are more likely to eat even when they’re not hungry—especially in response to boredom or external cues—rather than losing control around food, helping families understand that weight gain has a biological basis and may be better supported through structured routines, environmental supports, and proactive nutrition planning rather than willpower‑based approaches.