A prospective clinical pilot-trial comparing the effect of an optimized mixed diet versus a flexible low-glycemic index diet on nutrient intake and HbA1c levels in children with type 1 diabetes

Background: Low-glycemic index (GI) diet vs. high-GI diet improves glycemic control, but it is not clear whether a low-GI diet is superior to an optimized mixed diet (OMD). Methods: This was a 12-week parallel-group pilot-trial including 17 children with type 1 diabetes. A separate dietary education into the allocated diet (OMD vs. low-GI) was performed. Nutrition was recorded by means of a three-day dietary record. Objectives: The primary objective was to determine the macro- and micronutrient composition of the different diets, the secondary objective was to determine the short-term effect on HbA(1c) levels. Results: In the low-GI group carbohydrate intake decreased, fat intake increased by trend. In the OMD group fat and energy intake decreased. No changes of HbA(1c) levels between the groups were observed. Conclusion: OMD could have positive effects in overweight and obese diabetic children, since a reduction in fat and energy intake can be achieved. The findings of this pilot-trial suggest that OMD could be superior to a low-GI diet.