We've known about the role of diet and exercise in preventing and treating diabetes for years. But what if a less obvious cause, something deeply human and frequently overlooked, has a lot to do with it? Well, according to a recent research loneliness and social isolation may be an underlying contributor to diabetes risk among older adults.
The study, ENDO 2025, has brought this connection to light. Researchers studied data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore the relationship between social isolation and metabolic health. Their findings revealed that individuals experiencing social isolation were not only significantly more likely to develop diabetes, but also struggled more with maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
We then reached out to our expert, Dr Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant- General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida to understand this better. “This finding shines light on a key, though too-often-neglected, component of wellness. It's speculated that ongoing loneliness may initiate stress responses within the body, causing inflammation and hormonal disturbances that affect insulin sensitivity. In addition, isolation may influence daily habits in ways that could lead to poorer eating and lower levels of physical activity, both of which are known diabetogenic factors,” he explained.
Adding to that Dr Tyagi empasised that therefore cultivating social relationships and combating loneliness can be an essential, yet often unsaid, aspect of a complete well-being regimen.
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Preventing the Loneliness-Diabetes Link: Practical Tips
Understand the possible effect of social isolation on diabetes risk gives us the power to take preventative measures. These are some expert-approved practical tips to develop connection and protect your well-being:
1. Prioritise Social Relationships
Effortfully link up with neighbours, family, and friends. Arrange regular phone calls, video calls, or meet-ups. Any small regular interactions can significantly contribute.
2. Join a Club or Community Group
Look for local clubs, societies, or volunteer groups with shared interests. This might be a walking group or a book club, a local hobby society or charity organization. Common activities are great for making new friends.
3. Embracing Technology Carefully
As good as it is, social media and online forums are no replacement for face-to-face contact. They are, however, valuable tools for remaining connected, particularly for people with mobility issues. Utilise them to keep in touch with friends and to pursue new hobbies, but always observe screen time.
4. Volunteer Your Time
Contributing to your community not only helps others but also brings you a sense of meaning and the ability to meet new individuals. Seek out causes that interest you.
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5. Learn a New Skill or Hobby
Take a class, workshop, or online course that piques your interest. This can give you a structured setting for interaction and a common learning process with others.
6. Adopt a Pet
For some, the social contact of a pet can help counteract feelings of loneliness and create a daily routine that invites social interaction (e.g., walking a dog).
7. Talk About It
If you're lonely or isolated, speak to a close friend, family member, or healthcare professional. Talking through these feelings is the first step towards making changes. Mental health services can also offer coping strategies and tips on developing resilience.
Placing social wellness high on your agenda isn't necessarily about happiness; it may be a strong move toward protecting your health from lifestyle diseases such as diabetes. What can you do today to build stronger social ties?