Loneliness contributes to decreased physical activity and unhealthy diet, which increases the risk of developing diabetes. This conclusion was reached by researchers from the US National Institute on Aging. shared Results in the journal Nutrients.
1,713 Americans ages 33 to 77 participated in the study. Scientists tried to find out whether changes in psycho-emotional state resulting from loneliness could be a risk factor for the development of diabetes. They collected information about participants’ health, income, and eating habits and asked them to fill out surveys to assess the severity of perceived loneliness. Approximately 14% of participants often felt unhappy due to the absence of a life partner, and 8% reported feeling disconnected from society in general.
24%, 26%, and 51% of the participants were normal weight, overweight, and 51% obese, respectively. Light-skinned participants were more likely to have prediabetes, while darker-skinned participants were more likely to have diabetes. Additionally, light-skinned people were more likely to report feelings of abandonment compared to African Americans.
The researchers found that longer and stronger feelings of loneliness were associated with participants’ preference for unhealthy foods. However, the subjects generally ate a lot of processed foods (sweets, fast food) and small amounts of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, volunteers who felt isolated from society tended to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Taken together, these habits increase the risk of developing diabetes.
It was before named It is a type of diet that is beneficial for people with diabetes.