The effects of the psyche on our metabolism can be traced back to the womb. "Unborn babies later have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes if the mother had major emotional problems during pregnancy," says Johannes Kruse, director of the Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy at the University Hospital in Gießen and Marburg.

Emotional neglect and abuse in children and work stress and anxiety in adults increase the risk of developing diabetes. Because people with psychological problems tend to pay less attention to their health, diet and sufficient exercise.

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