What Is Diabulimia?
Diabulimia is an eating disorder that affects individuals with Type 1 diabetes who deliberately restrict or misuse insulin to control weight. This dangerous behavior combines elements of an eating disorder with a serious medical condition and can result in life-threatening complications.
Without adequate insulin, the body cannot properly process glucose, leading to high blood sugar, dehydration, ketoacidosis, and potential organ damage. Over time, diabulimia may cause blindness, neuropathy, kidney failure, or even death.
At Virtue Recovery, we provide the medical, nutritional, and psychological care necessary to help individuals overcome diabulimia and build a healthy future.
5 Signs & Symptoms of Diabulimia
Skipping or Reducing Insulin Doses
Individuals may avoid or intentionally reduce insulin injections as a way to control or lose weight. This dangerous behavior can quickly lead to severe blood sugar imbalances and long-term health complications.
Frequent Hospitalizations for Diabetic Complications
Diabulimia often results in repeated episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or uncontrolled blood sugar levels. These medical emergencies may require frequent hospital stays and pose life-threatening risks if untreated.
Rapid or Unexplained Weight Changes
Weight fluctuations can occur as a result of insulin manipulation and unstable blood sugar levels. Sudden or unexplained changes in weight may be one of the most visible warning signs.
Preoccupation with Food, Weight, or Body Image
Individuals may show obsessive concern about weight, body shape, or calorie intake. These disordered eating thoughts, when combined with insulin misuse, create a dangerous cycle.
Severe Medical Complications
Long-term insulin restriction can lead to nerve pain, vision problems, and slow-healing wounds. Extreme fatigue and other complications may also develop, putting overall health at serious risk.
Treatment Options for Diabulimia
Client Testimonials
Luxury Treatment for Diabulimia
Virtue Recovery offers world-class clinical care in a serene and private setting, allowing clients to focus fully on their healing journey. Our luxury facilities combine comfort with safety, featuring chef-prepared meals, modern accommodations, and supportive environments designed to reduce stress and restore balance.
In addition to high-quality medical and psychological care, we integrate holistic therapies that address the mind, body, and spirit. This comprehensive approach ensures clients receive the tools and support they need to manage both diabetes and disordered eating, promoting long-term recovery and renewed well-being.
Our Las Vegas Luxury Inpatient Diabulimia Treatment Center
Our inpatient center in Las Vegas provides 24/7 monitoring and integrated care for individuals with diabulimia. With medical oversight, therapy, and diabetes education, clients receive the comprehensive support needed to stabilize health and rebuild trust in insulin use.
This setting is ideal for clients who require medical supervision and intensive therapy to safely begin their recovery.
Name: Virtue Recovery Las Vegas
Address: 9230 Corbett St, Las Vegas, NV 89149
Phone Number: (702) 996-5973
Our Las Vegas Outpatient Diabulimia Treatment Center
Our outpatient program provides continued care for individuals managing both diabetes and disordered eating behaviors. Clients live at home while attending scheduled therapy, counseling, and nutritional education sessions.
Name: Virtue Recovery Las Vegas Outpatient
Address: 2585 Montessouri St # 100, Las Vegas, NV 89117
Phone Number: (702) 996-5973
Our Las Vegas Adolescent / Teen Inpatient Diabulimia Treatment Center
Teens with Type 1 diabetes may be at increased risk for diabulimia. Our Adolescent / Teen Inpatient Program provides medical and psychological care tailored for young people and their families.
Name: Silver State Adolescent Treatment
Address: 8225 W Robindale Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89113
Phone Number: (725) 777-1440
