Diabetes and Eating Disorders

Research shows an increased prevalence of eating disorders and related conditions among women with type 1 diabetes compared to their counterparts without diabetes. Diabulimia, a specific condition involving deliberate insulin omission or misuse as a weight-loss strategy, has garnered significant attention. Understanding diabetes and its types is essential to grasp the context of diabulimia.

Diabetes: An Overview

Diabetes is a condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to issues with the hormone insulin. After digestion, food is converted into glucose, which enters the bloodstream. The pancreas produces insulin, allowing the body's cells to utilize glucose for energy. Insufficient insulin function impedes proper glucose absorption, leading to potential health complications.

Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes: Previously known as juvenile diabetes, type 1 diabetes arises from an autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in complete insulin deficiency. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections to manage their blood glucose levels.

2. Type 2 Diabetes: Initially referred to as adult-onset diabetes, type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin, impairing its proper usage. Initially managed through lifestyle changes and oral medications, many individuals with type 2 diabetes eventually require insulin.

Diabulimia: A Unique Eating Disorder

Diabulimia specifically involves the conscious manipulation of insulin among individuals with type 1 diabetes as a means of weight loss. This may entail altering insulin administration by reducing, omitting, delaying, or otherwise rendering it ineffective.

Signs and Symptoms of Diabulimia

• Significant and rapid weight loss
• Elevated A1c levels despite proper control
• Frequent urination, persistent thirst, insatiable hunger, and fatigue
• Excessive preoccupation with body size and weight
• Excessive exercise
• Dietary restriction and meal skipping

Consequences of Diabulimia

Diabulimia can have serious implications, including:

• Impaired diabetes control and increased risk of complications like diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney failure, nerve damage, vision loss, heart disease, and stroke
• Increased hospitalizations and higher mortality rates

Treatment for Diabetes and Eating Disorders

Comprehensive treatment typically involves a team of specialists, including a psychotherapist, dietitian, and endocrinologist. The approach involves regular and flexible eating patterns along with close monitoring of lab tests.

Seeking Assistance

If you or a loved one is struggling with disordered eating and diabetes, especially if it involves insulin manipulation, professional help is essential. Organizations like the Diabulimia Helpline, Diabetics with Eating Disorders, and We Are Diabetes provide support and resources.