Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

5/4/05

Q:
How are long term eating disorders related to diabetes?

A:
Long term eating disorders are not, in and of themselves, a cause of diabetes, but can serve as a trigger if you are "programmed" for diabetes. I suggest you get this checked out with a fasting blood glucose. If it is close to 200, we usually call that "diabetes". The controlling part becomes more challenging if you frequently binge/regurgitate. Assuming you are receiving support, perhaps therapeutically, you will need additional advice on how to reconcile your binges with any interventions that might be recommended. Cross each bridge as you come to it, being open to seeking the necessary support.