Effect of Body Weight on Glycaemic Indices in People with Type 1 Diabetes Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Obesity and overweight have become increasingly prevalent in different populations of people with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D). This study aimed to assess the effect of body weight on glycaemic indices in PwT1D. Methods: Adult PwT1D using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and followed up at a regional academic diabetes centre were included. Body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and standard CGM glycaemic indices were recorded. Glycaemic indices were compared according to BMI, and correlation and linear regression analysis were performed to estimate the association between measures of adiposity and glycaemic indices. Results: A total of 73 PwT1D were included (48% normal weight, 33% overweight, and 19% obese). HbA1c was 7.2% (5.6–10), glucose management indicator (GMI) 6.9% (5.7–8.9), coefficient of variation (CV) for glucose 39.5% ± 6.4, mean glucose 148 (101–235) mg/dL, TIR (time in range, glucose 70–180 mg/dL) 66% (25–94), TBR70 (time below range, 54–69 mg/dL) 4% (0–16), TBR54 (<54 mg/dL) 1% (0–11), TAR180 (time above range, 181–250 mg/dL) 20% ± 7, and TAR250 (>250 mg/dL) 6% (0–40). Glycaemic indices and achievement (%) of optimal glycaemic targets were similar between normal weight, overweight, and obese patients. BMI was associated negatively with GMI, mean glucose, TAR180, and TAR250 and positively with TIR; waist circumference was negatively associated with TAR250. Conclusions: CGM-derived glycaemic indices were similar in overweight/obese and normal weight PwT1D. Body weight and BMI were positively associated with better glycaemic control. PwT1D should receive appropriate ongoing support to achieve optimal glycaemic targets whilst maintaining a healthy body weight.