Intuitive Eating for Diabetes

By Grace Song

Diabetes is known to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States. With many physical symptoms including increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, as well as unexplained weight loss, diabetes is considered one of the most serious health concerns around the world.1 In addition to physical symptoms, diabetes can negatively affect the overall quality of life for diagnosed individuals. According to a study, diabetes can result in psychological exhaustion and even cognitive problems. Because diabetes impacts many areas of an individual’s life, it is crucial managing diabetes effectively.2

Intuitive Eating for Diabetes

Unlike many diets that encourage restricting certain foods, intuitive eating promotes food intake based on an individual’s own internal cues for hunger. Intuitive eating also encourages individuals to avoid perceiving certain foods as “good” or bad”. This approach can encourage body acceptance, which may be beneficial for individuals struggling with body image. Research regarding the effectiveness of intuitive eating has been promising. Studies regarding intuitive eating have shown that intuitive eating can influence metabolic changes, improve body satisfaction, and improve body weight control. In addition, practicing intuitive eating has been associated with lower chances of type 2 diabetes impacting glycemic control. In other words, intuitive eating can help maintain average glucose levels in the body. Intuitive eating is non-restrictive and based on an individual’s needs and is a great way to manage diabetes.3

References

1. Najafipour, H., Farjami, M., Sanjari, M., Amirzadeh, R., Shadkam Farokhi, M., & Mirzazadeh, A. (2021). Prevalence and Incidence Rate of Diabetes, Pre-diabetes, Uncontrolled Diabetes, and Their Predictors in the Adult Population in Southeastern Iran: Findings From KERCADR Study. Frontiers in Public Health, 9, 611652. Prevalence and Incidence Rate of Diabetes, Pre-diabetes, Uncontrolled Diabetes, and Their Predictors in the Adult Population in Southeastern Iran: Findings From KERCADR Study – PubMed (nih.gov)

2. Tekir, O., Çevik, C., Kaymak, G. Ö., & Kaya, A. (2021). The Effect of Diabetes Symptoms on Quality of Life in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes. Acta Endocrinologica (1841-0987), 17(2), 186–193. THE EFFECT OF DIABETES SYMPTOMS ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN INDIVIDUALS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES – PubMed (nih.gov)

3. Soares, F. L. P., Ramos, M. H., Gramelisch, M., de Paula Pego Silva, R., da Silva Batista, J., Cattafesta, M., & Salaroli, L. B. (2021). Intuitive eating is associated with glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. Eating and Weight Disorders: EWD, 26(2), 599–608. Intuitive eating is associated with glycemic control in type 2 diabetes – PubMed (nih.gov)

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