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The application of continuous glucose monitoring technology to eating disorders research: An idea worth researching
Journal article   Peer reviewed

The application of continuous glucose monitoring technology to eating disorders research: An idea worth researching

Emily K. Presseller, Megan N. Parker, Mandy Lin, James Weimer and Adrienne S. Juarascio
The International journal of eating disorders, v 53(12), pp 1901-1905
01 Dec 2020
PMID: 33159708

Abstract

Life Sciences & Biomedicine Nutrition & Dietetics Psychiatry Psychology Psychology, Clinical Science & Technology Social Sciences
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have revolutionized our capacity to measure blood glucose levels in real time using minimally invasive technology, yet to date there are no studies using CGM in individuals with eating disorders (EDs). Preliminary evidence suggests that eating disorder behaviors (EDBs) have substantial and characteristic impacts on blood glucose levels and glucose-related variables (e.g., binge-eating episodes cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, purging causes rapid drops in blood glucose to below normal levels). The aims of this article are to describe the benefits of CGM technology over older methods of measuring blood glucose levels and to discuss several specific ways in which CGM technology can be applied to EDs research to (a) improve our ability to identify and predict engagement in EDBs in real time, (b) identify relationships between blood glucose levels and maintenance factors for EDs, and (c) increase our understanding of the physiological and psychological impacts of disordered eating. We also present preliminary acceptability and feasibility data on the use of CGM devices in individuals with EDs. Overall, the article will describe several applications of CGM technology in EDs research with compelling potential to improve research methodologies.

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9 citations in Scopus

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This publication has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:

#5 Gender Equality
#3 Good Health and Well-Being

InCites Highlights

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
Web of Science research areas
Nutrition & Dietetics
Psychiatry
Psychology
Psychology, Clinical
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