Eating Disorders and Diabetes: Facing the Dual Challenge

Abstract

Eating disorders and diabetes mellitus are distinct yet closely linked health conditions, presenting distinct challenges in terms of care and management. Eating disorders encompass a spectrum of mental health disorders characterized by abnormal eating behaviors and disruptions in weight regulation. Research indicates that individuals with diabetes might be at an elevated risk of developing eating disorders. The necessity to adhere to specific dietary guidelines, monitor blood sugar levels vigilantly, and manage drug administration can collectively contribute to the emergence of detrimental attitudes toward food and body image. On the other hand, incorrect eating behaviors such as binge eating and purging can disrupt blood sugar control, significantly impacting the development and management of diabetes. This intricate relationship emphasizes the crucial necessity for a comprehensive understanding and specialized care to effectively address the dual challenges faced by individuals dealing with both diabetes and eating disorders. This paper represents the inaugural comprehensive review delving into the intricate connection between eating disorders and diabetes, thereby illuminating previously under-researched areas. The insights gleaned from this review may contribute to developing integrated interventions that aim to improve the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals grappling with the complexities of eating disorders and diabetes.

The Risk of Eating Disorders in Adolescent Athletes: How We Might Address This Phenomenon?

“…To overcome this health condition, it is necessary to accept it, seek help from a professional clinical team, and have family support. Eating disorders generate irreversible sequelae [ 3 ], as they are unknown by many people and hidden by others [ 4 ].…”

Mindful Eating and Current Glycemic Control in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

“…overcoming challenges such as food cravings and disruptions in eating due to stress, anxiety, or depression, including skipped meals and irregular eating habits. They are all crucial for people with obesity to manage diabetes and overall well-being [ 4 , 5 ].…”

“…1 Comparison of three groups with each other;2 Comparison of Groups 1 and 2 (HbA1c ≤7% with HbA1c 7-9%);3 Comparison of Groups 1 and 3 (HbA1c ≤7% with HbA1c >9%);4 Comparison of Groups 2 and 3 (HbA1c 7-9% with HbA1c >9%). p-values in bold indicate statistical significance.…”

Food-Related Behavioral Patterns in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: The Role of Food Involvement and Health Engagement

“…Food involvement, described as the level of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional commitment a person gives to every aspect of food interaction, has been linked to various dietary patterns [ 27 , 28 , 29 ], suggesting that individuals who deeply engage with food, making it a central aspect of their lives, may be more susceptible to the psychological and behavioral tendencies discussed previously. Specifically, the renunciation of food could burden these individuals by exacerbating distress and complicating adherence to dietary guidelines [ 30 ]. This is particularly relevant considering their propensity for using food to regulate mood and their preference for hedonic, pleasure-inducing foods [ 31 ].…”