A review of risk factors associated with insulin omission for weight loss in type 1 diabetes

Disordered eating in adolescents with type 1 diabetes: risk factors and screening recommendations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Adolescents with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) are at significantly greater risk for disordered eating behaviors compared to their peers without T1D. Given that this is a dangerous and potentially lethal combination, this review aims to support pediatric medical providers in increasing competence in identification, assessment, and prevention of disordered eating behaviors in adolescents with T1D.

RECENT FINDINGS

This review provides an up-to-date synthesis of unique risk factors for disordered eating behaviors in adolescents with T1D, including the daily diabetes management tasks, effects of insulin on weight and hunger, family conflict, and reinforcement from their environment for disordered behaviors. This review recommends two brief screening tools, the Diabetes Eating Problems Survey-Revised (DEPS-R) and Modified SCOFF (mSCOFF), to be used in busy practices; it also provides practical strategies for providersto use with patients in the form of effective, nonjudgmental language.

SUMMARY

A clear understanding of unique experiences impacting adolescents with T1D may increase use of evidence-based screening tools and identification of disordered eating behaviors among a high-risk population in clinic/practice. In addition, providers' intentional use of nonjudgmental and de-stigmatizing language may lead to more positive interactions for adolescents and willingness to engage in further treatment.

Implementation of the Mind Youth Questionnaire (MY-Q) for routine health-related quality of life screening of adolescents with type 1 diabetes in a large tertiary care center

OBJECTIVES

Prevalence of diabetes distress and mental health comorbidities among adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is high. Despite recommendations for routine psychosocial risk assessment, there is little guidance for their implementation. This study aims to describe the implementation and baseline outcomes of the Mind Youth Questionnaire (MY-Q), a validated psychosocial screening tool for health-related quality of life (QoL) including mood, among adolescents living with T1D.

METHODS

Adolescents aged 13-18 years completed the MY-Q from October 1, 2019-April 1, 2023. Baseline characteristics, MY-Q results including categories flagged positive (noting possible areas of concern), debrief duration, and frequency of social work or mental health referral were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 343 adolescents (mean age 15.3 years; 52 % female) completed a baseline MY-Q. Median overall MY-Q debrief time (IQR) was 10.0 min (6.0, 20.0). About 290 (84.5 %) adolescents had at least one of seven categories flagged, most commonly "Family" (61 %). About 30 % of adolescents had "Mood" flagged, and 2.9 % of adolescents were referred to mental health following debrief.

CONCLUSIONS

Without the need for additional resources, implementation of the MY-Q in a pediatric tertiary care diabetes clinic successfully identified QoL issues and mental health concerns among adolescents with T1D.

Does Insulin Delivery Technology Change Our Relationship with Foods? A Scoping Review

Introduction: Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems reduce burden and improve glycemic management for people with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D) by automatically adjusting insulin as a response to measured glucose levels. There is a lack of evidence on AID and nutrition variables such as dietary intake, eating behaviors, and disordered eating. Objectives: This scoping review aims to provide a summary of the literature regarding AID and nutrition variables and to identify gaps that require further investigation. Methods: Two researchers conducted a blinded search of Medline (OVID) and PubMed for studies, including AID use (compared to non-AID use) and nutrition variables. Studies from January 2000 to July 2023 were included, as were PwT1D of all ages. Results: A total of 3132 articles were screened for appropriateness. After exclusions, 7 studies were included (2017-2023): 4 qualitative, 1 crossover, 1 randomized controlled, and 1 observational. Studies included adolescents (n = 1), adults (n = 3) or both (n = 2), and all ages (n = 1). In quantitative studies, AID was associated with lower eating distress (-0.43 ± 0.12, P = 0.004) and higher quality of life (3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.8-5.4, P = 0.01), but not grams of carbohydrates at meals (1.0; 95% CI: -0.7 to 3.0; P = 0.24) and snacks (0.004; 95% CI: -0.8 to 0.8; P = 0.99) compared to non-AID use. In qualitative studies, AID increased the frequency and portions of food intake and led to less dietary control from parents. AID users reported eating foods higher in energy density. PwT1D were less worried about achieving accurate carbohydrate counting (CC) when using AID. Conclusions: AID use appears to influence eating behaviors, dietary patterns, and CC, although evidence was limited. AID may reduce food management burden due to the perception that AID can correct for CC inaccuracy. Significance: Further research needs to determine if AID allows for simplification of CC and improves eating behaviors while maintaining glycemic stability.

Health-Related Quality of Life of Adolescents and Children With Type 1 Diabetes in the Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is increasingly prevalent among Saudi Arabian youth, particularly in the Jazan region. This chronic condition necessitates lifelong insulin therapy and poses significant daily management challenges for affected adolescents. Despite the high incidence rates, there is a notable lack of research into how T1DM impacts the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of these individuals.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess HRQoL and its demographic correlates in T1DM patients in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 236 T1DM patients completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Diabetes Module 3.0 (PedsQL DM). The HRQoL across domains of diabetes symptoms, treatment barriers, adherence, worry, and communication was compared by gender, nationality, age, education, residence, and healthcare follow-up using t-tests and ANOVA. Multivariate regression identified predictors of overall HRQoL.

RESULTS

Most respondents were female (51.3%), 42.8% were between the ages of seven and 12 years, and 94.5% were Saudi nationals. Males reported better HRQoL than females, with fewer symptoms, treatment barriers, and better communication (all p<0.05). Non-Saudis had better treatment adherence, communication, and overall HRQoL than Saudis (all p<0.05). Older children (13-18 years) reported lower treatment barriers than younger children (three to six years) (p<0.05). Those with intermediate education had lower treatment barriers than those with preliminary education (p = 0.038). Only the female gender (-0.171, p = 0.009) independently predicted poorer overall HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed disparities in HRQoL among T1DM children and adolescents. Males, non-Saudis, older children, and those with more education had better HRQoL. Females were at particular risk for poorer outcomes. Targeted interventions are needed to address this region's demographic disparities in diabetes-related HRQoL.

A scoping review exploring the role of the dietitian in the identification and management of eating disorders and disordered eating in adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Eating disorder diagnoses and disordered eating behaviours are more prevalent in people living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, in particular in adolescents. The role of the dietitian in this setting is not clearly outlined in the literature.

AIM

This scoping review aims to outline the available information for the role of the dietitian in identifying and managing eating disorders in adolescents and adults with co-occurring Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in a clinical setting.

METHODS

The Johanna Briggs Institute was utilised to guide this scoping review and to develop a search strategy for relevant databases. Relevant organisations and societies websites and professional magazines were reviewed as part of the grey literature search.

RESULTS

38 peer reviewed journal articles, 5 professional articles, 5 book chapters and 11 clinical guidelines were included in this scoping review. Roles for the dietitian in identification, prevention and screening for eating disorders in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus were identified and outlined in a visual workflow. The role of the dietitian in the management of eating disorder in both the outpatient/community and inpatient setting and as core member of the multidisciplinary team was detailed in the literature.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review mapped the available information in the current literature on the role of the dietitian in the identification and management of eating disorders and disordered eating in adolescents and adults with a dual diagnosis of T1DM. The reviewed literature suggests there is a strong reliance on expert opinion and practice to inform the role of the dietitian. Further research is required in order to ensure more robust evidence-based practice in this area.

Diabulimia: A Risky Trend Among Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE

Poor adherence leads to worse glycemic control and increased complications in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Diabulimia characterizes patients with T1DM who skip or use less insulin for weight loss purposes. The study objectives were to determine: (1) the prevalence of diabulimia among adult patients with T1DM, (2) compare patients with and without diabulimia, and (3) identify factors that may place individuals at higher risk of diabulimia.

METHODS

A 40-item, web-based survey was administered to 21 T1DM discussion boards, Listservs, and social media outlets. The survey assessed demographics, diabetes management, psychiatric diagnoses, and screened for diabulimia. Individuals who reported intentionally skipping or using less insulin than directed for the purpose of weight loss or to prevent weight gain in the past 12 months were classified as having diabulimia.

RESULTS

Of the 225 participants who completed the survey, 8.9% had diabulimia. Patients with diabulimia had elevated hemoglobin A1C (A1C) levels (8.4% vs 6.9%; P = .014), higher rates of a diabetes-related emergency department visits or hospitalization (30.0% vs 13.2%; P = .042), and higher rates of a major depressive disorder diagnosis (40.0% vs 11.5%; P < .001) than patients without diabulimia. Factors associated with diabulimia included high A1C levels (odds ratio, 1.43; 95% CI [1.08-1.91]; P = .014) and a major depressive disorder diagnosis (odds ratio, 4.87; 95% CI [1.31-18.22]; P = .018).

CONCLUSION

Approximately 1 in 11 adult patients with T1DM screened positive for diabulimia. Higher A1C levels and a diagnosis of major depressive disorder were associated with diabulimia.

Prevalence and Multidimensional Model of Disordered Eating in Youths With Type 1 Diabetes: Results From a Nationwide Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to report nationwide data of the prevalence of disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and to evaluate a multidimensional model of eating problems, analyzing how psychopathological problems are associated with DEBs and with metabolic control.

METHODS

This study was carried out using a cross-sectional design with a sample of 1,562 patients with T1D (812 male), aged 11-19 years. Participants were recruited from multiple pediatric diabetes centers (N = 30) located in northern, central, and southern Italy, and they individually completed the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey-Revised (DEPS-r) and the Youth Self-Report (YSR). Sociodemographic and clinical data were also gathered. Multiple-group structural equation modeling was used to investigate the relationships between internalizing/externalizing symptoms, DEBs, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values.

RESULTS

A total of 29.7% of the participants reported DEBs (DEPS-r scores ≥20), 42.4% reported insulin manipulation (IM). The prevalence of DEBs was higher for female participants (p ≤ .001). The model explains 37% of the variance in disordered eating, 12% in IM, and 21% in HbA1c values. Body mass index, externalizing symptoms, and internalizing symptoms were significantly and positively associated with DEBs, which in turn were significantly and positively associated with HbA1c values (all p ≤ .001). Externalizing (p ≤ .001) and internalizing (p ≤ .01) symptoms were also directly associated with HbA1c values.

CONCLUSION

Given the relevant prevalence of DEBs, their significant positive association with psychopathological symptoms, and their relationship with worse diabetes outcomes, regular psychological screening and support is needed to ensure the best care of adolescents with T1D.

Eating Disorders in Youth with Chronic Health Conditions: Clinical Strategies for Early Recognition and Prevention

Youth with chronic health conditions face an elevated risk of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. Contributors to this phenomenon may include the unique threats faced by this vulnerable population to their body image, their relationships with food and eating, and their mental health and self-esteem. However, youth with chronic health conditions may also experience more severe medical complications and mortality from eating disorder behaviors because of the additional risks conveyed by their underlying conditions. In this review, clinical strategies are provided to support youth with chronic health conditions through early recognition of eating disorder behaviors and prompt referral to treatment, which is important for a better prognosis. Suggestions are also given to mitigate their risk of developing eating disorders by proactively addressing risk factors and offering thoughtful anticipatory guidance that promotes a positive relationship with food and eating.

Disordered Eating Behaviors and Insulin Restriction in Saudi Adolescents and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) in type 1 diabetes (T1D) has been studied globally; however, data from Saudi Arabia and Arab-speaking countries are scarce. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of DEBs and associated clinical characteristics in adolescents and young adults with T1D, and the impact of DEBs on glycemic parameters. Materials and Methods: A total of 265 adolescents and young adults with T1D (aged 12-25 years) were recruited randomly from the registry at the Jazan Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Saudi Arabia. Participants completed the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey-Revised (DEPS-R) questionnaire. Other measures included hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in addition to sociodemographic, anthropometric, and clinical data. Results: The prevalence of DEBs among T1D was 27.2%. Females (32.5%) had a higher proportion of DEBs than males (18.6%) (p = 0.01). About 27% of the participants reported insulin restriction. A history of hospital admission in the previous 6 months due to DKA and frequent hypoglycemia was more frequently reported in T1D participants with DEBs compared to those without (p = 0.03). Participants with DEBs had higher HbA1c and higher BMI compared to those without DEBs. Conclusions: Adolescents and young adults with T1D with disordered eating and insulin restriction have higher glycated hemoglobin, and are at higher risk of DKA. Routine screening for DEBs should be an essential element in diabetes care, especially among highly vulnerable groups.

Transition From Pediatric to Adult Care for Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes: Opportunities and Challenges

OBJECTIVES

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic disease with patients across the age spectrum that has high potential for morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, patients transitioning from pediatric to adult care continue to demonstrate worsened glycemic control in part due to lack of understanding of transition of care best practices.

METHODS

This review highlights the impact of existing transition of care interventions, assessment tools, and other recently published strategies for providers to consider to improve care of adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with T1D in both hospital- and clinic-based settings.

RESULTS

Many barriers impact patients with T1D during the transition period and disparities by race, sex, insurance status, and comorbid illness persist. As diabetic care continues to evolve and the prevalence of adolescents and young adults living with T1D increases, an intentional approach to transition of care is more pressing than ever. While current literature on transition of care models is limited, many show promise in improving clinic attendance and decreasing hospitalization. There are critical discussions that providers should lead with AYA patients to improve their outcomes and increase diabetes self-management, such as re-addressing carbohydrate counseling, sleep hygiene, and reproductive planning.

CONCLUSION

While further research on transition of care is needed, many care models offer the promise of improved T1D outcomes, enhancements in our approach to care, and increased value for our health care system at large.

Are the Effects of Malnutrition on the Gut Microbiota–Brain Axis the Core Pathologies of Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a disabling, costly, and potentially deadly illness. Treatment failure and relapse after treatment are common. Several studies have indicated the involvement of the gut microbiota–brain (GMB) axis. This narrative review hypothesizes that AN is driven by malnutrition-induced alterations in the GMB axis in susceptible individuals. According to this hypothesis, initial weight loss can voluntarily occur through dieting or be caused by somatic or psychiatric diseases. Malnutrition-induced alterations in gut microbiota may increase the sensitivity to anxiety-inducing gastrointestinal hormones released during meals, one of which is cholecystokinin (CCK). The experimental injection of a high dose of its CCK-4 fragment in healthy individuals induces panic attacks, probably via the stimulation of CCK receptors in the brain. Such meal-related anxiety attacks may take part in developing the clinical picture of AN. Malnutrition may also cause increased effects from appetite-reducing hormones that also seem to have roles in AN development and maintenance. The scientific background, including clinical, microbiological, and biochemical factors, of AN is discussed. A novel model for AN development and maintenance in accordance with this hypothesis is presented. Suggestions for future research are also provided.

Type 1 diabetes youth with disordered eating: Is there a disproportionate impact on ethnic minorities and indigenous peoples?

Adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus consistently have suboptimal glycaemic control and worse outcomes, and this is especially true for adolescents from indigenous communities and ethnic minorities. It is increasingly recognised that disordered eating is common in adolescents and likely causes a disproportionate impact on glycaemic outcomes and psychological morbidity. Eating disorders may be even more common in indigenous and ethnic minority populations and be another reason why it is harder to achieve recommended glycaemic targets in this group. In this viewpoint, we explore the issues around disordered eating in this vulnerable group, the difficulties in diagnosis and the challenges in management. We focus in particular on the outcomes in the more disadvantaged adolescents with type 1 diabetes, especially indigenous groups and ethnic minorities, an area where there have been few publications and generally less recognition to date.