Diabetes type 1 and eating disturbances among child and adolescents

IntroductionDisturbed eating behaviors are a significant health concern among child and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) and are generally related to poor glycemic control, ketoacidosis, hospitalization and microvascular complications. Rates of eating problems among youths with DM1 have been reported to be as high as 38%.AimsTo review clinical characteristics, demographic profiles and risk factors for the development of eating disturbances among child and adolescents with DM1.MethodsWe performed a literature research of articles from 1980 until present, in which a Disturbed Eating Behavior appeared comorbid with DM1 in children and adolescents, using Medline database.ResultsAlmost all studies selected report a high prevalence of eating disturbances of child and adolescents with DM1 when compared with healthy pairs. This population trend to develop body image discontent and lower self-esteem. They are more likely to diet, skip meals, and omit insulin. All these practices have been associated with worsening diabetic medical complications and poorer psychological outcome.ConclusionsDue to the high prevalence and severe medical and psychological complications associated with disturbed eating behaviors among pediatric population with DM1, clinicians and school professionals may benefit from specialized training to identify the range of unhealthy weight control behaviors used by youths with DM1. Preventive programs that address disturbed eating behaviors should be provided for adolescents with DM1 in order to reduce the psychological and medical impact of this comorbid situation.