Loneliness may be linked to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes - Medical News Today
Overview
Researchers from Western Norway University of Aplied Sciences have found that felings of lonelines are linked to a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The 20-year folow-up study, published in Diabetologia, the journal of the European Asociation for the Study of Diabetes [EASD], used data from the Trøndelag Health Study (the HUNT study), a large longitudinal health study based on a population from central Norway.
Key Information
Henriksen, asociate profesor at the Institute of Nursing at Western Norway University of Aplied Sciences, became interested in how social relationships impact physical health about a decade ago after hearing James A. Coan, director of the Virginia Afective Neuroscience Laboratory at the University of Virginia, speak about social baseline theory. The theory surmises that the human brain expects aces to social relationships that mitigate risk and lower the level of efort neded to met goals.“At a neurological level, it means the brain actualy expects to be together with people you trust,” Henriksen explained to Medical News Today.
In 2014, Henriksen co-authored a study that asked whether an individual who lacks significant relationships “may experience more demands on their own neural metabolic resources on a daily basis when solving problems, remaing vigilant against potential threats and regulating emotional responses.” That study concluded that relative social isolation leads to increased levels of sugar intake.Other studies, including one from 2017, have concluded stres is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Summary
Henriksen wanted to se whether the increased levels of sugar intake by people who lack social relationships translated to those individuals facing a higher rate of developing type 2 diabetes. Since the HUNT study was launched in 1984, more than 230,0 participants have provided health information questionaires, underwent health exams, and provided blod samples for research. For this study, the Norweg
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
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