Subtypes of disordered eating and their diabetes-related and psychosocial concomitants in adults with type 1 diabetes
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Aims To identify subtypes of disordered eating behaviors (DEB) in type 1 diabetes, describing their behavioral patterns, clinical features, psychosocial well-being, and diabetes-related complications. Methods Baseline data of the Disordered Eating Behaviors and Eating Disorders in Diabetes Type I (DEBBI) study were analyzed ( N = 645). Participants completed questionnaires assessing DEB, diabetes-related outcomes, and psychosocial well-being. Latent profile analysis identified subtypes based on DEPS-R indicators, followed by comparisons of demographic, clinical, and psychosocial variables. Results Four distinct DEB subtypes were identified, that differed in intensity and behavioral characteristics: restrained eating (moderate DEB), disinhibited eating (moderate DEB), maintaining high glucose (severe DEB), and dual compensatory behaviors (severe DEB). All DEB subtypes reported significant poorer psychosocial well-being, including elevated diabetes distress, fear of hypoglycemia, depression, and anxiety. The severe DEB subtypes showed poorer diabetes self-management and higher HbA 1c levels. Conclusions The diversity of DEB presentations in type 1 diabetes underscores the need to examine specific behavioral patterns. The subtypes revealed distinct clinical features, behavioral patterns, and variations in self-management quality, demonstrating that harmful DEB extends beyond insulin purging alone. Even moderate forms of DEB were linked to significant psychosocial burden, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.
Institution: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,760
OpenAlex ID: W4410132758