Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus and Eating Disorders: A Literature Review

Abstract

Ego development, independence, and self-concept are psychosocial issues which play an enormous role in the successful passage of youth through adolescence. This is a time of uncertainty and upheaval for the healthy teen. The onset of a chronic disease such as insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) during this tumultuous period of development can disrupt the adolescent, and psychological problems and/or disorders such as depression, poor body image, and eating disorders can develop. A review of the literature tends to implicate stringent dietary restrictions and weight gain as predisposing factors in the incidence of eating disorders within this population. Also, low self-esteem, depression, and the struggle between autonomy and dependence are commonly associated with IDDM, as well as eating disorders. Although the association between diabetes mellitus and eating disorders is controversial, the magnitude of serious complications arising from the combination warrants further research. Eating disorders within the IDDM population interfere with glycemic control, in a population already hormonally tenuous in achieving this control, and predisposes the young individual to the many serious complications which arise from poor metabolic functioning. In order to adequately care for adolescents with IDDM, caregivers must look at the disease in a multidisciplined approach and consider the possibility of low self-esteem, depression, and/or an eating disorder.