Warning Signs of ED-DMT1

Medical professionals and researchers have identified the following warning signs that might be present when an individual with diabetes may also be developing an eating disorder:

• Changes in eating habits (typically eating more but still losing weight).
• Rapid weight loss or weight gain.
• Low self-esteem or preoccupation with body image, weight or food intake.
• Frequent urination, excessive thirst or high blood-sugar levels.
• Low energy, fatigue, shakiness, irritability, confusion, anxiety or even fainting.
• Purging behaviors (such as vomiting, excessive exercise or the use of laxatives).
• Discomfort with eating or taking insulin in front of other people.
• Hoarding food.
• Unwillingness to follow through with medical appointments.
• Recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
• Please note this is not an exhaustive list! It's important to ask your patients, or loved one, the right questions if you suspect they may be struggling with an eating disorder.