Highly increased risk of type 2 diabetes in patients with binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa

Childhood Maltreatment and Physical Health in College Students: Physical Activity and Binge Eating as Moderators

Child maltreatment leads to pervasive physical health problems. For individuals with a child maltreatment history, physiological risk factors for future disease are apparent by young adulthood. The current study explored the role that physical activity and binge eating may have in the trajectory from child maltreatment to poor adult health. We administered the following measures to 100 female and male college students: resting heart rate assessment, symptoms of illness, and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ-SF) to assess maltreatment history. After this session, participants wore a Fitbit that provided physical activity data (low, moderate, and vigorous activity, and total steps) in a free-living environment for a period of 10 days. Physical activity moderated the pathway between maltreatment history and both resting heart rate and symptoms of illness. In individuals with higher CTQ scores, more low-intensity physical activity and total steps were related to fewer symptoms of illness and lower resting heart rate, respectively. Binge-eating behavior moderated the pathway between maltreatment and symptoms of illness, such that greater binge-eating behavior was associated with more self-reported illness symptoms in participants with higher CTQ scores. These findings suggest that on-campus interventions targeting physical activity and healthy eating behaviors will improve the long-term health of young adults with maltreatment history.

Leveraging OGTT derived metabolic features to detect Binge-eating disorder in individuals with high weight: a "seek out" machine learning approach

Binge eating disorder (BED) carries a 6 times higher risk for obesity and accounts for roughly 30% of type 2 diabetes cases. Timely identification of early glycemic disturbances and comprehensive treatment can impact on the likelihood of associated metabolic complications and the overall outcome. In this study, machine learning techniques were applied to static and dynamic glucose-derived measures to detect BED among 281 individuals with high weight. Data from the classic (2 h) and the extended (5 h) glucose load were computed by multiple algorithms and two models with the most relevant features were trained to detect BED within the sample. The models were then tested on an independent cohort (N = 21). The model based on the 5 h-long glucose load exhibited the best performance (sensitivity = 0.75, specificity = 0.67, F score = 0.71) diagnosing BED in 7 out of 10 cases. Sex, HOMA-IR, HbA1c and plasma glucose in different times, and hypoglycemia events were the most sensitive features for BED diagnosis. This study is the first to use metabolic hallmarks to train ML algorithms for detecting BED in individuals at high risk for metabolic complications. ML techniques applied to objective and reliable glycemic features might prompt the identification of BED among individuals at high risk for metabolic complications, enabling timely and tailored multidisciplinary treatment.

Reward and Inhibitory Control as Mechanisms and Treatment Targets for Binge Eating Disorder

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recent research has highlighted alterations in reward and inhibitory control among individuals with binge eating disorder, identifying both constructs as potential targets for treatment. Treatments targeting reward and inhibitory control for binge eating disorder are emerging. This review aims to summarize the recent literature evaluating reward and inhibitory control in binge eating disorder compared to weight-matched controls using behavioral paradigms and neuroimaging. This review also aims to summarize recent literature evaluating treatments for binge eating targeting these mechanisms and highlights additional work needed in these areas.

RECENT FINDINGS

Reward hypersensitivity and impaired inhibitory control are mechanisms underlying binge eating disorder. Individuals with binge eating disorder experience higher initial reward to food, and later, higher anticipatory reward but lower experienced food reward which maintains binge eating behavior. Treatments targeting reward and inhibitory control for binge eating include behavioral, computerized trainings, pharmacological, and neuromodulation treatments. The majority of trials are small but demonstrate promise in reducing binge eating and targeting theorized mechanisms. Larger, randomized trials are needed. Changes in reward and inhibitory control are present in individuals with binge eating disorder and treatments targeting these mechanisms demonstrate initial promise. Greater research is needed evaluating reward and inhibitory control simultaneously and with weight-matched comparison groups, as well as larger randomized trials that target both processes simultaneously.

The Impact of High Levels of Compensatory Exercise on Treatment Outcomes in Threshold and Subthreshold Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa (BN) and other specific feeding or eating disorders with subthreshold BN symptoms (OSFED-BN) are characterized by recurrent binge eating episodes accompanied by compensatory behaviors, including excessive exercise. We aimed to examine the role of compensatory exercise on several clinical disorder-related variables and the treatment outcomes. The sample included 478 patients diagnosed with either BN or OSFED-BN admitted for a 16-week eating disorder-specific treatment program. A battery of questionnaires was administered to evaluate eating and general psychopathology, and personality traits. Other clinical disorder-related data, including levels of compensatory exercise, were assessed through a semi-structured clinical interview. Between-group comparisons of compensatory exercise levels were analyzed, as a predictive model of risk of poor treatment outcomes. Path analysis was conducted using structural equation models to estimate the direct and indirect effects between the main variables. Higher levels of self-reported compensatory exercise were associated with greater eating psychopathology, general psychopathology, and more dysfunctional personality traits and were a predictor of poor treatment outcomes. Additionally, these levels achieved a mediating role in several paths contributing to a higher likelihood of a poor outcome. Further research is required to determine how psychotherapeutic approaches can be optimized to adequately include adaptive exercise for these patients.

"I Haven't Told Anyone but You": Experiences and Biopsychosocial Support Needs of People With Type 2 Diabetes and Binge Eating

Up to 25% of people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) may binge eat which is almost 10 times as many as in the general population. Binge eating is associated with depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Moreover, binge eating may increase the risk of obesity and high blood glucose levels, both of which can accelerate the onset of complications to diabetes and death in people with T2D. Still, little is known about the experiences, needs, and preferences of people with T2D and binge eating that can inform and develop current and future treatment efforts. The aim of the study was therefore to gain in-depth insights into the experiences and biopsychosocial support needs of women and men with T2D and binge eating. Twenty semi-structured individual interviews (65% with females) were conducted and analyzed according to the methodology of Interpretive Description. Four themes were identified: (a) T2D and binge eating: Feeling trapped in a vicious circle; (b) Unwanted outcasts: Responding to continuous criticism; (c) Biomedical relief: Blaming and adjusting the body; and, (d) Silent struggles: Wanting to cease the secrecy. Pertinent to all themes were the guilt, shame, and worries about developing complications that the participants experienced when binge eating despite having T2D. Although binge eating triggered emotional distress, binge eating was at the same time a way of coping with such distress. Implications for treatment and future research are discussed, including the need to systematically assess and address binge eating in routine T2D care.

Binge-Spectrum Eating Disorders, Mood, and Food Insecurity in Young Adults With Obesity

BACKGROUND

Disordered eating is common but underrecognized in people with obesity and the relationship of food insecurity, mood, and binge-spectrum eating disorders has not been well addressed in samples with higher weight. Young adults are particularly vulnerable to developing disordered eating.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of food insecurity, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and loneliness among young adults (aged 18-35 years) who screened positive for binge-spectrum eating disorders (i.e., binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa), those with subthreshold forms of these disorders, and individuals who did not screen positive for these conditions.

METHOD

This was a cross-sectional study of young adults with a self-reported body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 from the United States who were recruited online. Participants (N = 1,331; M ± SD age = 28.0 ± 3.4 years; body mass index [BMI] = 36.5 ± 6.2 kg/m2; 73.9% male; 56.3% White) completed surveys that evaluated disordered eating behaviors, food insecurity, mood, and lifestyle factors.

RESULTS

In the sample, 8.0% of participants screened positive for binge-spectrum eating disorder and 16.0% had probable subthreshold symptoms. Higher depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.03, 1.20], p = .01), perceived stress (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = [1.07, 1.19], p < .001), and food insecurity scores (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = [1.03, 1.21], p = .01) were associated with an increased likelihood of threshold binge-spectrum eating disorders.

CONCLUSION

People with disordered eating should also be evaluated for mood disorders and food insecurity and vice versa. Further research is needed to evaluate interventions that address food insecurity and mood disorders, which may help to decrease disordered eating.

An open trial for adults in a residential program for binge eating spectrum disorders

The current study assessed treatment outcome for 99 adult admissions to a residential program specifically designed for binge eating spectrum disorders (BESD). Participants completed self-report measures at admission, discharge, and 12-month follow-up and were asked to complete blood draws at admission and follow-up. Primary outcomes were eating behaviors; secondary outcomes included comorbid symptoms and physiological variables. Eating behaviors improved significantly from admission to follow-up, as did most comorbid symptoms and quality of life, despite no change in body mass index. Some variables displayed a curvilinear relationship, with some worsening of symptoms from discharge to follow-up, although scores at follow-up remained well below admission values. Participation in the treatment program was associated with reduced problematic eating and comorbid symptoms and increased quality of life up to one year after discharge. Findings from this study may encourage the development of similar residential treatment programs for BESD for those who have not responded to outpatient care or mixed milieu settings, and may prompt randomized studies testing similar treatments versus usual care.

Associations between food insecurity and diabetes risk factors in US adolescents in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2016

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the associations between household food insecurity and diabetes risk factors among lower-income US adolescents.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis. Household food security status was measured using the 18-item Food Security Survey Module. Simple and multivariable linear and logistic regressions were used to assess the association between food security status and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), HbA1C and homoeostatic model assessment - insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The analyses were adjusted for household and adolescent demographic and health characteristics.

SETTING

USA.

PARTICIPANTS

3412 US adolescents aged 12-19 years with household incomes ≤300 % of the federal poverty line from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles 2007-2016.

RESULTS

The weighted prevalence of marginal food security was 15·4 % and of food insecurity was 32·9 %. After multivariate adjustment, adolescents with food insecurity had a 0·04 % higher HbA1C (95 % CI 0·00, 0·09, P-value = 0·04) than adolescents with food security. There was also a significant overall trend between severity of food insecurity and higher HbA1C (Ptrend = 0·045). There were no significant mean differences in adolescents' FPG, OGTT or HOMA-IR by household food security.

CONCLUSIONS

Food insecurity was associated with slightly higher HbA1c in a 10-year sample of lower-income US adolescents aged 12-19 years; however, other associations with diabetes risk factors were not significant. Overall, this suggests slight evidence for an association between food insecurity and diabetes risk in US adolescents. Further investigation is warranted to examine this association over time.

What medical providers need to elevate outpatient care for adolescents and young adults with binge-eating disorder: A novel protocol

PURPOSE

Binge-eating disorder (BED) in adolescents and young adults is underrecognized and understudied and no standardized guidelines exist for medical providers caring for this population. To highlight the lack of extant evidence, we examine the demographic characteristics of youth with BED in an academic eating disorders (EDs) program and primary care clinic and describe the needs of their medical care providers.

METHOD

A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients who met criteria for BED from July 2021 to June 2022. We surveyed their medical providers to understand their needs in caring for this population. A multidisciplinary team with expertise in the care of youth with EDs amalgamated current evidence in caring for youth with BED into a protocolized care schema designed for implementation in the outpatient medical setting.

RESULTS

Eighteen youth with BED were reviewed, 14 identified as female, 3 as male, and 1 as "Other." Average age was 15.4 (2.7) years old, and mean body mass index was 35.90 (8.25). 33.3% (6) patients identified as White/Caucasian, followed by 22.2% (4) Hispanic/Latinx. Eleven of 18 were privately insured. The most common medical recommendations were for regular meals and snacks and for individual psychotherapy. Medical providers desired more education about identification and management of youth with BED.

CONCLUSIONS

To address the lack of medical care guidelines for youth with BED, recommendations in this Forum include: increased education for medical providers, standardized medical monitoring, an emphasis on psychotherapy, and a weight-inclusive orientation.

PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE

Adolescents and young adults with BED are underrecognized and undertreated. Little is known about the characteristics of these patients and the medical care these patients receive within academic EDs program. For the first time, preliminary recommendations for medical care are provided.

Eating Disorders: Assessing Its Prevalence and Pattern Among Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (EDs) are severe and multifaceted mental health issues that affect a person's perception of their body weight in relationship with food. Existing evidence shows that EDs significantly affect the physical and emotional health of individuals with Type-2 Diabetes (T2D) and are associated with impaired metabolic control and a high risk of medical complications, including higher mortality rates. However, there is a paucity of research looking into the prevalence of EDs.

OBJECTIVE

A cross-sectional study was conducted to map the prevalence of EDs and to assess its pattern among adults with T2D from Ahmedabad City, Gujarat, India.

METHODOLOGY

Two hundred fifty-four T2D individuals aged 30-60 were enrolled in the study. A questionnaire was developed using the Sick, Control, One, Fat, Food (SCOFF) questionnaire and a five-question screening tool intended to identify the possibility of EDs as well as the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDEQ), which is used to identify the pattern of EDs with subscales like Restraint, Eating Concern, Shape Concern, and Weight Concern. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's Correlation, and Logistic Regression analysis were used. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

 The results revealed that 90 (35%) of the total participants were at a high risk of EDs. Among these, 54 (21% of the total population) were males, and 36 (14% of total participants) were females. There was a mild statistically significant negative correlation between age and exercise with the presence of ED (r = -0.151, p = 0.016 and r = -0.186, p = 0.003, respectively), while education showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.150, p = 0.017). Males had significantly higher scores for eating concerns than females (19.75±4.88 vs 17.88±5.92; p = 0.008). The logistic regression model revealed that education was a significant predictor of EDs (OD = 1.47, 95% CI 1.00-2.16 and p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

The study identified that people with T2D are at risk of EDs, and eating concerns worry them the most. Thus, counseling sessions should focus on identifying the determinants of EDs and educating the patients regarding quality eating. This will have implications in addressing the other morbidities as well as health risks related to BMI; especially obesity as it is more prevalent in the T2D population.

Eating Disorders and Diabetes: Facing the Dual Challenge

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.

Methodology for studying Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs): a narrative review by a subgroup of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) consensus on REDs

In the past decade, the study of relationships among nutrition, exercise and the effects on health and athletic performance, has substantially increased. The 2014 introduction of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) prompted sports scientists and clinicians to investigate these relationships in more populations and with more outcomes than had been previously pursued in mostly white, adolescent or young adult, female athletes. Much of the existing physiology and concepts, however, are either based on or extrapolated from limited studies, and the comparison of studies is hindered by the lack of standardised protocols. In this review, we have evaluated and outlined current best practice methodologies to study REDs in an attempt to guide future research.This includes an agreement on the definition of key terms, a summary of study designs with appropriate applications, descriptions of best practices for blood collection and assessment and a description of methods used to assess specific REDs sequelae, stratified as either Preferred, Used and Recommended or Potential Researchers can use the compiled information herein when planning studies to more consistently select the proper tools to investigate their domain of interest. Thus, the goal of this review is to standardise REDs research methods to strengthen future studies and improve REDs prevention, diagnosis and care.

Outcomes for binge eating disorder in a remote weight-inclusive treatment program: a case report

BACKGROUND

There are no known published reports on outcomes for medically and psychiatrically compromised patients with binge eating disorder (BED) treated remotely in higher level of care settings. This case report presents outcomes of an intentionally remote weight-inclusive partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient program based on Health at Every Size® and intuitive eating principles.

CASE PRESENTATION

The patient presented with an extensive trauma background and long history of disturbed eating and body image. She was diagnosed with BED along with several comorbidities, most notably major depressive disorder with suicidality and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. She completed a total of 186 days in the comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment program encompassing individual and group therapy, as well as other supportive services such as meal support and in vivo exposure sessions. Upon discharge, her BED was in remission, her major depressive disorder was in partial remission, and she no longer exhibited signs of suicidality. Overall, she showed decreases in eating disorder, depressive, and anxiety symptoms as well as increases in quality of life and intuitive eating throughout treatment, which were largely maintained after one year.

CONCLUSIONS

This case highlights the potential of remote treatment as an option for individuals with BED, especially in cases where access to higher levels of care might be limited. These findings exemplify how a weight-inclusive approach can be effectively applied when working with this population.

Metabolic profile in women with bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder before and after treatment: secondary analysis from the randomized PED-t trial

PURPOSE

Chaotic eating and purging behavior pose a risk to the metabolic health of women with bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge-eating disorder (BED). This study reports on one-year changes in blood markers of metabolic health and thyroid hormones in women with BN or BED attending two different treatments.

METHODS

These are secondary analyses from a randomized controlled trial of 16-week group treatment of either physical exercise and dietary therapy (PED-t) or cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Blood samples collected at pre-treatment, week eight, post-treatment, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups were analyzed for glucose, lipids (triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), LDL cholesterol (LDL-c), HDL cholesterol (HDL-c), apolipoprotein A (ApoA) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) lipoproteins), and thyroid hormones (thyroxine (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroperoxidase antibodies).

RESULT

The average levels of blood glucose, lipids and thyroid hormones were within the recommended range, but clinical levels of TC and LDL-c were detected in 32.5% and 39.1%, respectively. More women with BED compared with BN had low HDL-c, and a larger increase over time in TC and TSH. No significant differences occurred between PED-t and CBT at any measurement. Exploratory moderator analyses indicated a more unfavorable metabolic response at follow-up among treatment non-responders.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of women with impaired lipid profiles and unfavorable lipid changes, suggests active monitoring with necessary management of the metabolic health of women with BN or BED, as recommended by metabolic health guidelines.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I: Evidence obtained from a randomized, experimental trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

This trial was prospectively registered in the Norwegian Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics on December 16, 2013, with the identifier number 2013/1871, and in Clinical Trials on February 17, 2014, with the identifier number NCT02079935.

Validity and Consistency of the Arabic Version of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) among Saudi Adults

The prevalence of eating disorders (EDs) is growing, and early screening is important to prevent related health complications. The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) has been widely used as a diagnostic tool to identify cases of EDs; however, a validated Arabic version of the tool is needed to help in the screening process of EDs. The aim of this study was to validate the Arabic version of EDE-Q. A cross-sectional study included a sample of 549 adults, who were recruited mainly from the four major provinces in Saudi Arabia. A forward–backward translation method was conducted, and then the tool was validated using the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The dataset was split for further convergent analysis using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and CFA. The results of CFA from the main dataset did not support the four-factor original EDE-Q. The results of EFA from the first data-split suggested a three-factor EDE-Q-14 Arabic version. This was supported by the results of CFA of the second data-split. A total of five items were allocated in each shape and weight concern, and restraint component, with correlations ranging from 0.969 and 0.462 and from 0.847 to 0.437, respectively. A total of four items were allocated in eating concern, with correlations ranging from 0.748 to 0.556. The internal consistency of the global and the three subscales were high, with Cronbach’s α ranging from 0.762 to 0.900. Findings of the current study suggest that the Arabic version of the EDE-Q-14 is a valid and reliable tool to screen for EDs among adults in Saudi Arabia.

Adult exposure of atrazine alone or in combination with carbohydrate diet hastens the onset/progression of type 2 diabetes in Drosophila

AIM

The combined impact of traditional and non-traditional risk factors of type 2 diabetes (T2D) on the development and progression of insulin resistance and associated complications is poorly understood. Therefore, we assessed the effect of moderately rich sugar diet coupled with environmental chemical exposure on the development and progression of T2D using Drosophila as a model organism.

MAIN METHODS

We reared newly eclosed Drosophila males on a diet containing atrazine (20 μg/ml; non-traditional risk factor) and/or moderately high sucrose (0.5 M/1 M; to mimic binge eating, Traditional risk factor) for 20-30 days. Subsequently, we assessed diabetic parameters, oxidative stress parameters and also the abundance of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) along with their receptor (RAGE) in these flies. For diabetic cardiomyopathy, we examined the pericardin (tissue fibrosis marker) level in Drosophila heart.

KEY FINDINGS

Flies reared on 20 μg/ml atrazine alone showed T2D hallmarks at 30 days. In contrast, flies reared on 0.5 M sucrose+ 20 μg/ml atrazine showed insulin resistance characterized by hyperglycemia and increased Drosophila insulin-like peptides along with reduced insulin signaling at 20 days, similar to those reared on high sucrose diet. In addition, both groups had high levels of oxidative stress and showed starvation response (converting triglycerides into fatty acids). Alarmingly, flies fed with sucrose+atrazine for 20 and 30 days had elevated pericardin in heart tissues, indicating early onset of diabetic complications such as cardiomyopathy.

SIGNIFICANCE

Lifestyle-chemical exposure synergistically impairs glucose metabolism, affects organisms' redox state and leads to the early onset of T2D and associated complications like cardiomyopathy.

A systematic review with meta-analyses of the relationship between recurrent binge eating and sleep parameters

BACKGROUND

Sleep problems are known to compound the negative effects of other health issues, such as eating disorders and the associated behavior of binge eating. Previous studies suggested associations between binge eating and sleep problems, but the strength of the relationship is unknown.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review with meta-analyses examining the relationship between binge eating and sleep parameters. We searched for studies in Scopus, PubMed, and PsycInfo. The quality of evidence, including risk of bias, was assessed with adaptations of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Quasi-Experimental Studies, depending on study design. Data was synthesized as the difference in sleep between people who did or did not have binge eating.

RESULTS

Thirty-one reports of studies met our eligibility criteria. Results are presented in 12 meta-analyses. In the 7 reports of studies (with 4448 participants) that assessed poor overall sleep quality, we found poorer overall sleep quality in people with binge eating compared to people without binge eating, with a standardized mean difference of 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.61-0.92; P < 0.001), which is a large effect size. In addition, we found evidence that people with binge eating had significantly greater hypersomnia/daytime sleepiness (7 reports of studies with 4370 participants), insomnia (5 reports of studies with 12,733 participants), and difficulty falling asleep (3 reports of studies with 4089 participants) compared to people without binge eating, with moderate effect sizes (standardized mean differences of 0.57-0.66).

CONCLUSIONS

People with binge eating exhibit poorer overall sleep quality compared to people without binge eating, and may also exhibit greater hypersomnia/daytime sleepiness, insomnia, and difficulty falling asleep. It is recommended that healthcare professionals routinely screen for poor overall sleep quality when treating people with binge eating-and address sleep difficulties when present.

Macronutrient intake: Hormonal controls, pathological states, and methodological considerations

A plethora of studies to date has examined the roles of feeding-related peptides in the control of food intake. However, the influence of these peptides on the intake of particular macronutrient constituents of food - carbohydrate, fat, and protein - has not been as extensively addressed in the literature. Here, the roles of several feeding-related peptides in controlling macronutrient intake are reviewed. Next, the relationship between macronutrient intake and diseases including diabetes mellitus, obesity, and eating disorders are examined. Finally, some key considerations in macronutrient intake research are discussed. We hope that this review will shed light onto this underappreciated topic in ingestive behavior research and will help to guide further scientific investigation in this area.

Glucose variability: A physiological correlate of eating disorder behaviors among individuals with binge-spectrum eating disorders

OBJECTIVES

Elevated glucose variability may be one mechanism that increases risk for significant psychological and physiological health conditions among individuals with binge-spectrum eating disorders (B-EDs), given the impact of eating disorder (ED) behaviors on blood glucose levels. This study aimed to characterize glucose variability among individuals with B-EDs compared with age-matched, sex-matched, and body mass index-matched controls, and investigate the association between frequency of ED behaviors and glucose variability.

METHODS

Participants were 52 individuals with B-EDs and 22 controls who wore continuous glucose monitors to measure blood glucose levels and completed ecological momentary assessment surveys to measure ED behaviors for 1 week. Independent samples t-tests compared individuals with B-EDs and controls and multiple linear regression models examined the association between ED behaviors and glucose variability.

RESULTS

Individuals with B-EDs demonstrated numerically higher glucose variability than controls (t = 1.42, p = .08, d = 0.43), although this difference was not statistically significant. When controlling for covariates, frequency of ED behaviors was significantly, positively associated with glucose variability (t = 3.17, p = .003) with medium effect size (f2  = 0.25). Post hoc analyses indicated that binge eating frequency was significantly associated with glucose variability, while episodes of 5+ hours without eating were not.

DISCUSSION

Glucose variability among individuals with B-EDs appears to be positively associated with engagement in ED behaviors, particularly binge eating. Glucose variability may be an important mechanism by which adverse health outcomes occur at elevated rates in B-EDs and warrants future study.

PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE

This study suggests that some individuals with binge ED and bulimia nervosa may experience elevated glucose variability, a physiological symptom that is linked to a number of adverse health consequences. The degree of elevation in glucose variability is positive associated with frequency of eating disorder behaviors, especially binge eating.

Depression was associated with younger age, female sex, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity, in 1027 patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes: a Swedish multicentre cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Depression is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aims were to explore the prevalence of depression, anxiety, antidepressant use, obesity, Hemoglobin A1c > 64 mmol/mol, life-style factors, pre-existing CVD, in patients with newly diagnosed T2D; to explore associations with depression; and to compare with Swedish general population data.

METHODS

Multicentre, cross-sectional study.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

adults with serologically verified newly diagnosed T2D. Included variables: age, sex, current depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), previous depression, antidepressant use, obesity (BMI ≥ 30 and ≥ 40 kg/m²), Hemoglobin A1c, pre-existing CVD. Logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

In 1027 T2D patients, aged 18-94 years, depression was associated with age (per year) (inversely) (odds ratio (OR) 0.97), anxiety (OR 12.2), previous depression (OR 7.1), antidepressant use (OR 4.2), BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (OR 1.7), BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² (OR 2.3), smoking (OR 1.9), physical inactivity (OR 1.8), and women (OR 1.6) (all p ≤ 0.013). Younger women (n = 113), ≤ 59 years, compared to younger men (n = 217) had higher prevalence of current depression (31% vs 12%), previous depression (43 vs 19%), anxiety (42% vs 25%), antidepressant use (37% vs 12%), BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (73% vs 60%) and BMI ≥ 40 kg/m²) (18% vs 9%), and smoking (26% vs 16%) (all p ≤ 0.029). Older women (n = 297), ≥ 60 years, compared to older men (n = 400) had higher prevalence of previous depression (45% vs 12%), anxiety (18% vs 10%), antidepressant use (20% vs 8%), BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (55% vs 47%), BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² (7% vs 3%) (all p ≤ 0.048), but not of current depression (both 9%). Compared to the Swedish general population (depression (women 11.2%, men 12.3%) and antidepressant use (women 9.8%, men 5.3%)), the younger women had higher prevalence of current depression, and all patients had higher prevalence of antidepressant use.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with newly diagnosed T2D, the younger women had the highest prevalence of depression, anxiety, and obesity. The prevalence of depression in young women and antidepressant use in all patients were higher than in the Swedish general population. Three risk factors for CVD, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity, were associated with depression.

Continuous glucose monitoring for detection of glycemic variability, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia in women with eating disorders

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, glycemic variability (GV), and eating behavior by measuring daily glucose levels through an intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) system in outpatients classified according to eating disorder subtypes.

Methods

We analyzed data for 18 patients (four ANR, nine ANBP, and five BN cases). A FreeStyle Libre Pro® device was attached to the posterior aspect of the upper arm for glucose monitoring. This device conducted measurements every 15 min for five consecutive days. We estimated the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia.

Results

The mean glucose levels were 91.1 ± 2.2 mg/dL in the ANR group, 94.8 ± 7.5 mg/dL in the ANBP group, and 87.1 ± 8.0 mg/dL in the BN group (P = 0.174). The overall mean MAGE index was 52.8 ± 20.5 mg/dL. The mean MAGE values according to the subtypes were 42.2 ± 5.6 mg/dL in the ANR group, 57.4 ± 23.7 mg/dL in the ANBP group, and 53.0 ± 21.8 mg/dL in the BN group (P = 0.496). Over the course of five days, the frequency of hypoglycemia was as follows: three occurrences in the ANBP group, five occurrences in the BN group, and no occurrences in the ANR group (P = 0.016). Moreover, the occurrence of hypoglycemia was statistically significantly higher in the BN group than in the ANR group (P = 0.013). In the BN group, the frequency of hypoglycemia was highest between 2 and 6 AM, while hypoglycemia was observed throughout the day in the ANBP group. The frequency of hyperglycemia was one occurrence in the ANR group, one occurrence in the BN group, and zero occurrences in the ANBP group (P = 0.641).

Conclusions

Varying GV, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia were observed in all subtypes of eating disorders. Our findings suggest that eating behaviors such as binge eating and purging are associated with GV and hypoglycemia. We showed the importance of developing different nutritional approaches tailored to the subtype of eating disorder to prevent hypoglycemia. Additional studies are needed to explore the relationship between glucose levels and eating behaviors in patients with eating disorders.

Managing type 2 diabetes or prediabetes and binge eating disorder: a qualitative study of patients' perceptions and lived experiences

BACKGROUND

The overlap in prevalence between type 2 diabetes and binge eating disorder is substantial, with adverse physical and mental health consequences. Little is known about patients' efforts at managing these two conditions simultaneously. The research objective was to explore patients' experiences managing co-existing type 2 diabetes or prediabetes and binge eating disorder.

METHODS

This is a qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews. Participants included 21 women with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes (90% non-Hispanic White; mean age 49 ± 14.8 years, mean BMI 43.8 ± 8.4; 48% with type 2 diabetes and mean HbA1c was 8.4%). Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis and NVivo software.

RESULTS

Qualitative analysis revealed that participants reported binge episodes frequently started in childhood or adolescence and went undiagnosed for decades; notably, they recalled that diabetes diagnosis preceded the binge eating disorder diagnosis. They also described trying to lose weight throughout their lives and how feelings of deprivation, shame, and failure exacerbated binge eating. Participants further reported how binge eating made diabetes self-care and outcomes worse. Finally, participants observed that when binge eating disorder treatment and diabetes management were synergistically integrated, they experienced improvements in both binge eating and glycemic outcomes. This integration included reframing negative thoughts surrounding binge eating disorder and diabetes self-management and increasing their understanding of how the two disorders were inter-related.

CONCLUSION

Findings highlight the importance of increasing healthcare providers' awareness of and screening for binge eating disorder in the treatment of diabetes and inform specific integrated interventions that address both diagnoses. From this study where we interviewed 21 women with binge eating disorder (BED) and type 2 diabetes/prediabetes, we learned how binge eating impacted diabetes management and how diabetes impacted BED. Most participants reported receiving the diabetes diagnosis before being diagnosed with BED despite the earlier onset of binge eating, pointing to the need for BED screening. Participants described trying to lose weight throughout their lives and reported feelings of failure and shame, which made binge eating worse. Binge eating made diabetes management harder, but when diabetes and BED treatment were aligned, participants experienced improvements in binge symptoms and diabetes outcomes.

Dietary Risk Factors and Eating Behaviors in Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Dietary risk factors play a fundamental role in the prevention and progression of atherosclerosis and PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease). The impact of nutrition, however, defined as the process of taking in food and using it for growth, metabolism and repair, remains undefined with regard to PAD. This article describes the interplay between nutrition and the development/progression of PAD. We reviewed 688 articles, including key articles, narrative and systematic reviews, meta-analyses and clinical studies. We analyzed the interaction between nutrition and PAD predictors, and subsequently created four descriptive tables to summarize the relationship between PAD, dietary risk factors and outcomes. We comprehensively reviewed the role of well-studied diets (Mediterranean, vegetarian/vegan, low-carbohydrate ketogenic and intermittent fasting diet) and prevalent eating behaviors (emotional and binge eating, night eating and sleeping disorders, anorexia, bulimia, skipping meals, home cooking and fast/ultra-processed food consumption) on the traditional risk factors of PAD. Moreover, we analyzed the interplay between PAD and nutritional status, nutrients, dietary patterns and eating habits. Dietary patterns and eating disorders affect the development and progression of PAD, as well as its disabling complications including major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and major adverse limb events (MALE). Nutrition and dietary risk factor modification are important targets to reduce the risk of PAD as well as the subsequent development of MACE and MALE.

Psychiatric and medical comorbidities of eating disorders: findings from a rapid review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (EDs) are potentially severe, complex, and life-threatening illnesses. The mortality rate of EDs is significantly elevated compared to other psychiatric conditions, primarily due to medical complications and suicide. The current rapid review aimed to summarise the literature and identify gaps in knowledge relating to any psychiatric and medical comorbidities of eating disorders.

METHODS

This paper forms part of a rapid review) series scoping the evidence base for the field of EDs, conducted to inform the Australian National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031, funded and released by the Australian Government. ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline were searched for English-language studies focused on the psychiatric and medical comorbidities of EDs, published between 2009 and 2021. High-level evidence such as meta-analyses, large population studies and Randomised Control Trials were prioritised.

RESULTS

A total of 202 studies were included in this review, with 58% pertaining to psychiatric comorbidities and 42% to medical comorbidities. For EDs in general, the most prevalent psychiatric comorbidities were anxiety (up to 62%), mood (up to 54%) and substance use and post-traumatic stress disorders (similar comorbidity rates up to 27%). The review also noted associations between specific EDs and non-suicidal self-injury, personality disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders. EDs were complicated by medical comorbidities across the neuroendocrine, skeletal, nutritional, gastrointestinal, dental, and reproductive systems. Medical comorbidities can precede, occur alongside or emerge as a complication of the ED.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides a thorough overview of the comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions co-occurring with EDs. High psychiatric and medical comorbidity rates were observed in people with EDs, with comorbidities contributing to increased ED symptom severity, maintenance of some ED behaviours, and poorer functioning as well as treatment outcomes. Early identification and management of psychiatric and medical comorbidities in people with an ED may improve response to treatment and overall outcomes.

Temporally ordered associations between type 2 diabetes and brain disorders - a Danish register-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is linked with several neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, either as a comorbid condition or as a risk factor. We aimed to expand the evidence by examining associations with a broad range of brain disorders (psychiatric and neurological disorders, excluding late-onset neurodegenerative disorders), while also accounting for the temporal order of T2DM and these brain disorders.

METHODS

In a population-based cohort-study of 1,883,198 Danish citizens, born 1955-1984 and followed until end of 2016, we estimated associations between T2DM and 16 brain disorders first diagnosed between childhood and mid-adulthood. We calculated odds ratios (OR) and hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) in temporally ordered analyses (brain disorder diagnosis after T2DM and vice versa), adjusted for sex, age, follow-up, birth year, and parental factors.

RESULTS

A total of 67,660 (3.6%) of the study population were identified as T2DM cases after age 30 and by a mean age of 45 years (SD of 8 years). T2DM was associated with most psychiatric disorders. Strongest associations were seen with other (i.e. non-anorectic) eating disorders (OR [95% CI]: 2.64 [2.36-2.94]) and schizophrenia spectrum disorder (2.73 [2.63-2.84]). Among neurological disorders especially inflammatory brain diseases (1.73 [1.57-1.91]) and epilepsy (1.67 [1.60-1.75]) were associated with T2DM. Most associations remained in both directions in the temporally ordered analyses. For most psychiatric disorders, associations were strongest in females.

CONCLUSIONS

T2DM was associated with several psychiatric and neurological disorders, and most associations were consistently found for both temporal order of disorders. This suggests a shared etiology of T2DM and those brain disorders. This study can form the starting point for studies directed at further elucidating potential causal links between disorders and shared biological mechanisms.

Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Resting-State High-Frequency Heart Rate Variability in Binge-Eating Disorder

Abstract. Binge-eating disorder (BED) is associated with a greater risk for cardiac problems and co-occurring health conditions. Resting-state measures of high-frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV), which is a physiological proxy of self-regulatory neural functioning, may aid understanding of health risks. We systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed the literature on HF-HRV in individuals with BED and without BED. Six studies were reviewed in the qualitative synthesis, and five studies assessing HRV in individuals with BED ( n = 153) and without BED ( n = 124) were included in the meta-analysis. A non-significant effect size (Hedges’ g = .08, SE = 0.36, 95% CI [−0.62, 0.78]; z = 0.23, p = .82) was found, suggesting no difference in HF-HRV between groups. Age, BMI, and BMI-matched control status were not significant covariates. Synthesizing the five studies with available data, we found no difference in resting-state HF-HRV between individuals with and without BED. There was high heterogeneity in the sample, suggesting potential moderators. We discuss potential mechanisms, methodological and demographic confounds, and future directions for study.

Behavioral health disorders related to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

Content available: Author Interview and Audio Recording.

Comparison of eating disorders and eating behaviors in adults with and without type 2 diabetes prior to bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders (ED) are group of psychological disorders that significantly impair physical health and psychosocial function. ED consists wide range of morbidity such as loss of eating control, binge eating disorder (BED), night eating syndrome, and bulimia nervosa. Eating behavior is a wide range term that includes food choices, eating patterns, eating problems. In this study, we compared eating disorders and eating behaviors in adults with and without type 2 diabetes prior to bariatric surgery.

METHODS

284 participants with class III obesity were included in the single center study. Each case (patients with type 2 diabetes) and control (patients without type 2 diabetes) groups consists 142 patients. Loss of eating control, BED and Bulimia nervosa, Night eating syndrome and eating behaviors and psychosocial factors were screened with standard questionnaires. SPSS version 20 was used for statistical analysis. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between participants with and without type 2 diabetes in case of BED (76.3% vs. 47.3%, P = 0.001). The logistic regression model has shown that participants without type 2 diabetes had lower odds of exhibiting BED (OR = 0.28, 95% CI 0.142-0.552). Among participants without type 2 diabetes, men had 65% high odds of BED (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.13-2.53) in compare with women. Participants with and without type 2 diabetes with high school degree (OR = 5.54, 95% CI 2.46-9.45, P = 0.0001 and OR = 6.52, 95% CI 3.15-10.56, respectively) and moderate depression level (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 0.98-3.95 and OR = 3.12, 95% CI 2.12-4.56, P = 0.0001) had higher odds of BED.

CONCLUSION

These results probably indicate that people with Class III obesity are more cautious about their diet for blood glucose control if they have type 2 diabetes. Future studies are recommended to follow up these patients after surgery to compare weight loss and blood sugar control in patients with and without type 2 diabetes.

Treatment Outcome for Adults in a Residential Program for Binge Eating Spectrum Disorders: Protocol for a Prospective Pragmatic Single-Arm Trial

Background

Most studies reporting treatment outcomes for eating disorders at higher levels of care focus on anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. No studies have been published with a singular focus on examining treatment outcomes for adults receiving residential programming specifically designed for the treatment of binge eating spectrum disorders (BESD), including binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa.

Objective

The purpose of this paper is to outline the protocol of a prospective study examining treatment outcomes at discharge and 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month postdischarge follow-up, for a sample of consecutive admissions to a residential program specifically for patients with BESD.

Methods

One hundred consecutive admissions to a binge eating treatment program were enrolled in the prospective single-arm trial between January 2019 and February 2020. Data were collected at admission, discharge, and 3, 6, and 12 months postdischarge, with admission, discharge, and 12-month follow-up as the major timepoints of interest. Results across the major timepoints will be analyzed with mixed effects general linear models.

Results

The primary aim is to assess the impact of the program on eating disordered behaviors at discharge and 12-month follow-up, which are hypothesized to improve as a result of treatment. Secondary hypotheses include improvements on comorbid symptoms, including trauma, depression, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, as well as improvements on medical indicators of health, including cholesterol and triglycerides, at discharge and 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions

This study may aid in the development of treatment guidelines for patients with BESD at higher levels of care and lend support to having specialty treatment programs for patients with BESD.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/32270

A comparison of negative affect and disinhibited eating between children with and without parents with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Children whose parents have type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at high-risk for developing T2D. In youth, negative affect has been shown to predict insulin resistance (IR), and disinhibited-eating behaviors have been linked to IR. It is unknown if youth with a parent with T2D (P-T2D) report greater psychological and behavioral symptoms than those without a P-T2D.

OBJECTIVE

To compare youth with and without a P-T2D on symptoms of negative affect and disinhibited-eating.

METHODS

Nine-hundred thirty-two youth (13.3 ± 2.6 years; BMIz 1.06 ± 1.06; 67.8% female; 53.6% people of color; 10.7% with a P-T2D) completed questionnaires of anxiety and depressive symptoms, eating in the absence of hunger, and emotional-eating. Loss-of-control (LOC)-eating was assessed by interview. In two separate subsamples, energy intake was explored using laboratory test meals simulating eating in the absence of hunger and LOC-eating, respectively. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity. In follow-up analyses, fat mass (kg) and height, and IR were included as covariates, respectively.

RESULTS

Adjusting for all covariates including adiposity and IR, compared to youth without a P-T2D, youth with a P-T2D reported more anxiety and depression symptoms, greater eating in the absence of hunger, and emotional-eating (ps < 0.05). No significant differences were found for LOC-eating, or in exploratory analyses of energy intake for either test meal (ps > 0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-reported negative affect and disinhibited-eating may be higher among youth with P-T2D compared to those without P-T2D. Prospective studies should examine, among those with a P-T2D, what role such symptoms may play for their subsequent risk for T2D.

Inpatients experiences about the impact of traumatic stress on eating behaviors: an exploratory focus group study

BACKGROUND

Unhealthy changes in eating behavior among people experiencing trauma have been observed. There is, however, a lack of in-depth knowledge regarding the impact of the after effects of traumatic life experiences on eating behavior. Because eating behavior represents important components for promotion and maintenance of good health throughout life, this study aimed to explore inpatients' lived experiences of the impact of traumatic stress on eating behavior.

METHOD

Thirteen female and two male inpatients (age range 28-62 years), recruited from a psychiatric clinic in Norway, participated in this qualitative explorative focus group study. The data analysis was performed using systematic text condensation.

RESULTS

The results in the present study describe the participants' experiences about the impact of traumatic stress on their eating behavior. Their discussions and descriptions disclosed problems that could be summarized into four main themes: "experiencing eating behaviors as coping strategies"; "experiencing being addicted to food and sweets"; "experiencing eating behaviors controlled by stress and emotions"; and "experiencing lack of appetite and reduced capacity to plan and prepare meals".

CONCLUSION

Traumatic stress can impact eating behavior in several complex ways that over time may cause adverse health consequences. The results add to an important understanding of changes in eating behavior that might appear in people struggling to cope with the after effects of traumatic life experiences to the existing literature. To better understand the complexity of how traumatic experiences may impact eating behavior, this knowledge is important and useful for health professionals offering support to those who experience struggling with eating behavior after traumatic experiences.

Association between Visceral Adiposity Index, Binge Eating Behavior, and Grey Matter Density in Caudal Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Severe Obesity

Visceral adipose tissue accumulation is an important determinant of metabolic risk and can be estimated by the visceral adiposity index (VAI). Visceral adiposity may impact brain regions involved in eating behavior. We aimed to examine the association between adiposity measurements, binge eating behavior, and grey matter density. In 20 men and 59 women with severe obesity, Grey matter density was measured by voxel-based morphometry for six regions of interest associated with reward, emotion, or self-regulation: insula, orbitofrontal cortex, caudal and rostral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Binge eating behavior, depression and impulsivity was assessed by the Binge Eating Scale, Beck Depression Inventory and UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale, respectively. Men and women were distinctively divided into two subgroups (low-VAI and high-VAI) based on the mean VAI score. Women with high-VAI were characterized by metabolic alterations, higher binge eating score and lower grey matter density in the caudal ACC compared to women with low-VAI. Men with high-VAI were characterized by a higher score for the sensation-seeking subscale of the UPPS–Impulsive Behavior Scale compared to men with low-VAI. Using a moderation–mediation analysis, we found that grey matter density in the caudal ACC mediates the association between VAI and binge eating score. In conclusion, visceral adiposity is associated with higher binge eating severity in women. Decreased grey matter density in the caudal ACC, a region involved in cognition and emotion regulation, may influence this relationship.

THE CHALLENGES OF METABOLIC SYNDROME IN EATING DISORDERS

A number of studies have examined the association of the three major eating disorders - anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder - with metabolic syndrome, or with individual components of metabolic syndrome, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Present evidence suggests that anorexia nervosa confers no excess risk of metabolic syndrome and may be associated with lower risk of certain metabolic syndrome components, including obesity and type 2 diabetes. Bulimia nervosa shows associations with increased risk for metabolic syndrome components in some studies, but not in others. Binge-eating disorder, however, is strongly associated with increased risk for both metabolic syndrome and its components - and these associations appear to be mediated not only through elevated body weight, but also possible body-weight-independent factors. Given that binge-eating disorder is the most common eating disorder, treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome in this group represents a significant clinical and public health challenge.

The Welsh Eating Disorder Service Review 2018, Scottish Eating Disorder Service Review 2021 and recommendations of best practice in comorbid eating disorders and diabetes

BACKGROUND

Diabetes and eating disorders are frequently comorbid. This particular comorbidity is not only often poorly recognised, but is difficult to treat and has a high mortality.

METHOD

In this article, we will briefly review the relationship between diabetes and eating disorders. We will review the current NICE and other guidance and reports concerning both diabetes and eating disorders in the United Kingdom. We will then describe the recommendations of the 2018 Welsh Government Eating Disorder Service Review and the 2021 the Scottish Government Eating Disorder Service Review regarding diabetes and eating disorders, which will lead to service change.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that this is a relatively underdeveloped but important area where there needs to be further service development and more collaboration between diabetes and eating disorder services.

The role of the intestinal microbiota in eating disorders - bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder

Bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED) are both eating disorders (EDs) characterised by episodes of overeating in which large amounts of food are consumed in short periods. The aetiology of BN and BED is not fully understood. Psychological and social factors influence the development of BN and BED, but biological factors such as neurohormones that regulate hunger and satiety, or neurotransmitters responsible for mood and anxiety play a significant role in sustaining symptoms. Increasing numbers of studies confirm the relationship between the composition of intestinal microbiota and the regulation of appetite, mood, and body mass. In this manuscript, we will describe the mechanisms by which intestinal dysbiosis can play an important role in the aetiology of binge eating episodes based on current understanding. Understanding the two-way relationship between BN and BED and alterations in the intestinal microbiota suggest the utility of new treatment methods of these disorders aimed at improving the composition of the intestinal microflora.

Binge-Eating Disorder and Type 2 Diabetes: A Review

OBJECTIVE

To familiarize health care providers with diagnosis and treatment of binge-eating disorder (BED), a common comorbidity of type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

Literature review of binge eating and T2DM. Key words used in search include BED, T2DM, obesity, and treatment.

RESULTS

The prevalence of BED in patients with T2DM appears to be much higher than the 2% to 3.5% prevalence seen in the general population. Studies suggest that up to 20% of patients with T2DM have an underlying eating disorder, the most common of which is binge eating. BED is probably underdiagnosed, even though there are multiple simple tools that providers can use to improve screening for the disorder. Though the relationship between BED and hemoglobin A1c control can vary, it appears that binge-eating behaviors can worsen metabolic markers, including glycemic control. Various medications used by patients with diabetes have been associated with new-onset BED, and treatment may be as simple as removing or replacing such agents. Several medications have been found to significantly reduce binge-eating frequency, and potentially, weight. Patients with BED generally benefit from psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy.

CONCLUSION

BED, only recently added to the International Classification of Disease-10 diagnostic list, is very common in patients with obesity and T2DM. The diagnosis is important to establish, as treatment or referral for treatment, could potentially improve many of the comorbidities and metrics of T2DM.

Pathophysiology linking depression and type 2 diabetes: Psychotherapy, physical exercise, and fecal microbiome transplantation as damage control

Diabetes increases the likelihood of developing depression and vice versa. Research on this bidirectional association has somewhat managed to delineate the interplay among implicated physiological processes. Still, further exploration is required in this context. This review addresses the comorbidity by investigating suspected common pathophysiological mechanisms. One such factor is psychological stress which disturbs the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis causing hormonal imbalance. This includes elevated cortisol levels, a common biomarker of both depression and diabetes. Disrupted insulin signaling drives the hampered neurotransmission of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Also, adipokine hormones such as adiponectin, leptin, and resistin and the orexigenic hormone, ghrelin, are involved in both depression and T2DM. This disarray further interferes with physiological processes encompassing sleep, the gut-brain axis, metabolism, and mood stability. Behavioral coping mechanisms, such as unhealthy eating, mediate disturbed glucose homeostasis, and neuroinflammation. This is intricately linked to oxidative stress, redox imbalance, and mitochondrial dysfunction. However, interventions such as psychotherapy, physical exercise, fecal microbiota transplantation, and insulin-sensitizing agents can help to manage the distressing condition. The possibility of glucagon-like peptide 1 possessing a therapeutic role has also been discussed. Nonetheless, there stands an urgent need for unraveling new correlating targets and biological markers for efficient treatment.

Binge Eating Disorder: A 5-Year Retrospective Study on Experimental Drugs

Binge eating disorder (BED) affects a significant rate of the general population causing a negative impact on their quality of life, weight, and self-esteem. Besides psychological treatments that compose the majority of the studies, pharmaceuticals have contributed to improve a host of clinical parameters, thus being an important component of the treatment. We opted to target the latest results by performing a review of the literature on the pharmacology for BED from the last 5 years. To achieve this goal, the terms: "binge eating disorder" and "treatment" were added to the PubMed database and the website clinicaltrials.gov. At least five drugs were either being tested or had already been recognized to improve BED symptoms - although only lisdexamfetamine is currently approved by the FDA to treat this condition. However, due to a better understanding of BED psychopathology in the last decade, it is notorious that improvement of eating-related symptoms is not the only desired target. Due to the significant comorbidity percentage (30%), weight loss is highly pursued, as well as the amelioration of clinical parameters which highlights the importance of having new agents combining both objectives.

The Neurobiology of Binge-eating Disorder Compared with Obesity: Implications for Differential Therapeutics

PURPOSE

Emerging work indicates divergence in the neurobiologies of binge-eating disorder (BED) and obesity despite their frequent co-occurrence. This review highlights specific distinguishing aspects of BED, including elevated impulsivity and compulsivity possibly involving the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, and discusses implications for differential therapeutics for BED.

METHODS

This narrative review describes epidemiologic, clinical, genetic, and preclinical differences between BED and obesity. Subsequently, this review discusses human neuroimaging work reporting differences in executive functioning, reward processing, and emotion reactivity in BED compared with obesity. Finally, on the basis of the neurobiology of BED, this review identifies existing and new therapeutic agents that may be most promising given their specific targets based on putative mechanisms of action relevant specifically to BED.

FINDINGS

BED is characterized by elevated impulsivity and compulsivity compared with obesity, which is reflected in divergent neurobiological characteristics and effective pharmacotherapies. Therapeutic agents that influence both reward and executive function systems may be especially effective for BED.

IMPLICATIONS

Greater attention to impulsivity/compulsivity-related, reward-related, and emotion reactivity-related processes may enhance conceptualization and treatment approaches for patients with BED. Consideration of these distinguishing characteristics and processes could have implications for more targeted pharmacologic treatment research and interventions.

Binge Eating and Binge Drinking: A Two-Way Road? An Integrative Review

Unhealthy diet and alcohol are serious health problems, especially in adolescents and young adults. "Binge" is defined as the excessive and uncontrolled consumption of food (binge eating) and alcohol (binge drinking). Both behaviors are frequent among young people and have a highly negative impact on health and quality of life. Several studies have explored the causes and risk factors of both behaviors, and the evidence concludes that there is a relationship between the two behaviors. In addition, some research postulates that binge eating is a precipitating factor in the onset and escalation of excessive alcohol consumption, while other studies suggest that alcohol consumption leads to excessive and uncontrollable food consumption. Given that no review has yet been published regarding the directionality between the two behaviors, we have set out to provide an upto- date overview of binge eating and binge drinking problems, analyzing their commonalities and differences, and their uni- and bidirectional associations. In addition, we explore the reasons why young people tend to engage in both behaviors and consider directions for future research and clinical implications.

The treatment of binge eating disorder with cognitive behavior therapy and other therapies: An overview and clinical considerations

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a public health problem in several countries. BED is commonly associated with comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, and depression. Notwithstanding the health problems associated with BED, evidence-based treatments for BED are not widely used by healthcare professionals worldwide. Thus, we provide an overview of the leading evidence-based psychological therapies for BED, with the intention of informing healthcare professionals and the general community and facilitating greater provision of treatment. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for BED is briefly presented, focusing mainly on adaptations and stages of the cognitive behavior therapy-enhanced (CBT-E) transdiagnostic model for eating disorders. We also succinctly discuss the use of CBT in combination with weight management interventions or pharmacotherapy, as well as the use of interpersonal therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for BED. We conclude that there is a variety of evidence-based psychological therapies that can be used by a variety of healthcare professionals (not only by psychologists) to help reduce binge eating and associated psychopathology in people with BED. Given the high and increasing prevalence of BED, as well as the availability of effective evidence-based treatments, we encourage more healthcare professionals to explore up-skilling to assist people with BED.

The application of continuous glucose monitoring technology to eating disorders research: An idea worth researching

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have revolutionized our capacity to measure blood glucose levels in real time using minimally invasive technology, yet to date there are no studies using CGM in individuals with eating disorders (EDs). Preliminary evidence suggests that eating disorder behaviors (EDBs) have substantial and characteristic impacts on blood glucose levels and glucose-related variables (e.g., binge-eating episodes cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, purging causes rapid drops in blood glucose to below normal levels). The aims of this article are to describe the benefits of CGM technology over older methods of measuring blood glucose levels and to discuss several specific ways in which CGM technology can be applied to EDs research to (a) improve our ability to identify and predict engagement in EDBs in real time, (b) identify relationships between blood glucose levels and maintenance factors for EDs, and (c) increase our understanding of the physiological and psychological impacts of disordered eating. We also present preliminary acceptability and feasibility data on the use of CGM devices in individuals with EDs. Overall, the article will describe several applications of CGM technology in EDs research with compelling potential to improve research methodologies.

The Western diet: a blind spot of eating disorder research?-a narrative review and recommendations for treatment and research

Over the last 50 years, in parallel with the obesity epidemic, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased and presentations have changed. In this narrative review, we consider recent research exploring the implications of changing patterns of food consumption on metabolic and neurobiological pathways, a hitherto neglected area in eating disorder research. One of the major changes over this time has been the introduction of ultra-processed (NOVA-4) foods, which are gradually replacing unprocessed and minimally processed foods. This has resulted in the increased intake of various sugars and food additives worldwide, which has important metabolic consequences: triggering insulin and glucose response, stimulating appetite, and affecting multiple endocrine and neurobiological pathways, as well as the microbiome. A paradigm shift is needed in the conceptual framework by which the vulnerability to, and maintenance of, different eating disorders may be understood, by integrating recent knowledge of the individual metabolic responses to modern highly processed foods into existing psychological models. This could stimulate research and improve treatment outcomes.

Psychiatric Aspects of Obesity: A Narrative Review of Pathophysiology and Psychopathology

In the last decades, obesity has become a major concern for clinical and public health. Despite the variety of available treatments, the outcomes remain—by and large—still unsatisfactory, owing to high rates of nonresponse and relapse. Interestingly, obesity is being associated with a growing surge of neuropsychiatric problems, certainly related to the pathogenesis of this condition, and likely to be of great consequence as for its treatment and prognosis. In a neurobiologic direction, a sturdy body of evidence has recently shown that the immune–metabolic–endocrine dyscrasias, notoriously attached to excess body weight/adiposity, affect and impair the morpho-functional integrity of the brain, thus possibly contributing to neuroprogressive/degenerative processes and behavioral deviances. Likewise, in a neuropsychiatric perspective, obesity displays complex associations with mood disorders and affective temperamental dimensions (namely cyclothymia), eating disorders characterized by overeating/binge-eating behaviors, ADHD-related executive dysfunctions, emotional dysregulation and motivational–addictive disturbances. With this review, we attempt to provide the clinician a synoptic, yet exhaustive, tool for a more conscious approach to that subset of this condition, which could be reasonably termed “psychiatric” obesity.