Loneliness, Binge Eating, and Type 2 Diabetes: A Novel Theoretical Model Evaluation

Binge eating disorder and loneliness have both been identified as risk factors for developing Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM), and thus require attention and intervention. The interpersonal model of binge eating proposes that interpersonal problems lead to binge eating via the mediating pathway of negative affect. However, it is unclear whether the interpersonal construct of loneliness may serve a similar function. The current study aimed to test a loneliness model of binge eating in a T2DM population. Study participants (n = 192; mean age = 48.68 ± 14.85; 52.1% female gender) completed an online survey including measures of loneliness (UCLA Three-item Loneliness Scale and direct loneliness question), negative affect (Patient Health Questionnaire-4) and binge eating (Binge Eating Disorder Screener-7). We used structural equation modelling to assess the model and analysed mediation effects. The loneliness model of binge eating showed excellent model fit, and negative affect fully mediated the relationship between loneliness and binge eating (95% CI: 0.33, 0.90). Our findings indicate that interventions addressing loneliness may also be effective in reducing binge eating behaviours, contributing to the growing body of research emphasising the impact of loneliness on those living with T2DM.