Weight Loss Program Improves Eating Disorder Symptoms in At-Risk Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes

A groundbreaking study reveals that a low-energy diet combined with behavioral support can significantly reduce eating disorder symptoms in people with type 2 diabetes, offering a safe and effective treatment option.
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Oxford has demonstrated that an intensive low-energy diet program can significantly improve symptoms of eating disorders among individuals with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese and show early signs of eating disorder behaviors. Published in The Lancet Psychiatry, this research suggests that structured weight loss interventions, such as the total diet replacement (TDR) program used in the study, could be both effective and safe for this vulnerable population.
The study involved 56 participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the past six years, all exhibiting symptoms of eating disorders identified through the validated Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). Half of these participants undertook a six-month TDR program providing approximately 860 kcal/day, combined with behavioral support, akin to the NHS Path to Remission initiative. The control group continued with usual care from their general practitioners.
Results revealed that those on the TDR program experienced notable reductions in eating disorder symptoms, which persisted even six months after completing the program, despite slight weight regain. Additionally, participants in this group showed improvements in depression and diabetes-related distress. While the weight loss was substantial at six months (averaging 13.9 kg), the difference between groups diminished by the 12-month mark, and no new cases of eating disorders were suspected during the study.
These findings are particularly significant as they address prior concerns that weight loss diets might worsen eating disorder symptoms. Dr. Elena Tsompanaki, the study’s lead author, emphasized that their results challenge the assumption that weight loss programs are unsafe for at-risk individuals. Instead, the research indicates that with appropriate support, such programs can be beneficial for both physical and mental health.
Professor Susan Jebb highlighted that the promising safety profile of these programs could expand treatment options for patients. The study underscores the potential for structured weight management interventions to be integrated safely into care plans for individuals with complex health needs, including mental health aspects.
Limitations include the relatively small sample size and demographic factors, but ongoing follow-up studies aim to evaluate long-term outcomes. Overall, this research offers reassurance that restrictive, low-energy diets guided by professional support can be effectively and safely implemented, potentially transforming approaches to weight management in patients with type 2 diabetes and eating disorder symptoms.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-weight-loss-shown-disorder-symptoms.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Innovative Liver Organoid Model Recreates Complex Liver Structure
Scientists have developed a new liver organoid model that accurately replicates the organ's complex cellular architecture, enabling detailed study of liver functions and diseases in the lab.
The Role of Practice Nurses in Enhancing Contraception and Abortion Access in Australia
New research emphasizes the potential of practice nurses to improve access to contraception and abortion services in Australia through better training, policy support, and expanded roles in primary care.
Innovative Generative AI Enhances Radiology Efficiency by 40% While Maintaining Accuracy
A pioneering generative AI system developed at Northwestern Medicine boosts radiology report efficiency by 40% while maintaining diagnostic accuracy, revolutionizing healthcare workflows.
'Barcodes' Written into DNA Uncover How Blood Ages
New research uncovers how DNA methylation barcodes reveal blood cell aging, showing reduced stem cell diversity and clonal expansion linked to age-related inflammation and disease risks.