Weight Control Behaviors among Emerging Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the association of weight control behaviors (WCBs) with living and educational situations among emerging adults with type 1 diabetes during the first year after high school graduation. Methods Among 184 emerging adults with type 1 diabetes, data were collected every 3 months for 12 months on WCBs, body mass index (BMI), living and educational situations; at baseline and 12 months, on impulse control; and at baseline, on sex, depressive symptoms, and glycemic control. Generalized linear models incorporated repeated measures (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months). Results No significant associations existed between WCBs and living or educational situations, when controlling for covariates. More depressive symptoms and higher BMIs were associated with a greater likelihood of involvement in unhealthy WCBs, whereas more depressive symptoms—not higher BMI—were associated with higher odds for involvement in very unhealthy WCBs. Although healthy WCBs were also associated with more depressive symptoms and higher BMIs, they were also associated with greater impulse control. Conclusions Health care professionals should assess emerging adults with type 1 diabetes for WCBs along with BMI, depressive symptoms, and impulse control.