Type 1 Diabetes and Disordered Eating Behavior

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. Its treatment typically requires the administration of insulin, and weight gain is a common side effect as glycemic control improves. Thus, patients with T1DM are at heightened risk for developing comorbid disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) or eating disorders (EDs), primarily due to mandatory food monitoring and other aspects related to the treatment of T1DM. In this chapter, we discuss the specific characteristics related to DEBs and EDs in children, adolescents, and adults with T1DM, especially intentional insulin omission, and some important aspects related to the screening and assessment of DEBs and EDs related to diabetes. Because of the higher dropout rates from therapy in individuals with T1DM and EDs, we also discuss the implications for treatment and recovery of these patients since joint work between diabetes and mental health teams is essential to ensure the best management of these specific situations.