The influence of dietary intake on blood glucose control in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

Research demonstrates that there is limited evidence concerning the optimal type of dietary therapy and the nutritional requirements of children and young people with diabetes. However, there is a consensus that children and young people with diabetes have the same basic nutritional requirements as other children and young people for the promotion of good health. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary intake of children with Diabetes Mellitus type 1 and to assess its influence on blood glucose control. A descriptive design was undertaken using a questionnaire and a food and physical activity diary. A convenience sample of 25 Maltese children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus were recruited with a response rate of 62.5% during the time period. The sample included 14 males and 11 females aged between 2 and 14 years, with a mean age of 9.12 years. Results showed that there is a correlation between glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and the sugar taken by the participant, as patients with a high measurement of sugar tend to have a high measurement of HbA1c. Moreover, the dietary intake varied between participants; some opted for a healthy balanced diet while others preferred to eat unhealthy foods. In addition, most of the participants perform some type of physical activity during the day. Their blood glucose level varied during the day and was highest at dinnertime followed by the late evening snack. A set of recommendations were oriented to clinical practice, education and further research.