Mediterranean diet adherence and glycemic control in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: To effectively manage type 1 diabetes (T1D) insulin is essential, with dosages based on lifestyle. Mediterranean diet has demonstrated its advantages in preventing and enhancing the management of chronic diseases. Nevertheless, the evidence supporting this association in younger patients with type 1 diabetes remains limited. Our objective was to investigate the potential mediation of sensor activity on the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and glycemic control in children and adolescents. Methods: 150 children and adolescents (mean age = 13.09, SD = 3.54; 44% female) with type 1 diabetes were recruited. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the KIDMED questionnaire. Glycemic control and the duration of sensor activity were evaluated based on data from flash glucose monitoring. Results: The data confirmed our hypothesis by revealing a significant relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and glycemic control. This relationship was mediated by the duration of sensor activity. Conclusions: Our results highlight the importance of incorporating Mediterranean diet recommendations to achieve better glycemic control. Furthermore, our findings support the increased utilization of glycemic control devices, as they contribute to improve glycemic control and mediate on the positive relationship between adherence of Mediterranean diet and adequate glycemic control.