Pilot Study Results for a Novel Behavior Plus Nutrition Intervention for Caregivers of Young Children With Type 1 Diabetes

Objective: To present results for a parent-based educational intervention targeting mealtime behaviors plus nutrition among families of young children (mean age, 5.0 +/- 1.2 years) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: The researchers recruited 9 caregivers who participated in the 6-session intervention and completed baseline and posttreatment assessments, which included dietary intake, acceptability of diet changes, mealtime behavior, and mean blood glucose values. Results: Children's mean daily blood glucose levels decreased from 185 +/- 46 mg/dL to 159 +/- 40 mg/dL (P < .001). There were also decreases in problematic parent and child mealtime behaviors. There was no change in children's dietary intake indicators that could be detected. Conclusions and Implications: It appears promising that this targeted behavior plus nutrition intervention can improve glycemic control and behavior for young children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Larger, randomized controlled trials will clarify significant results, limitations, and sustainability. Techniques within the program may have application to current practice.