Mapping lifestyle factors in blood glucose variability in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A Pilot study

Introduction Optimal glycaemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is essential to prevent complications but remains challenging due to changing lifestyle behaviours. Objectives This pilot study aims to assess whether adolescents with T1D in Ireland meet current nutrition and physical activity (PA) guidelines and to explore the impact of nutrition and PA on glycaemic variability (GV). Methods Seven adolescents with T1D recorded their PA, diet and blood glucose levels over seven consecutive days. GV was determined using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data. Results The majority of participants demonstrated low levels of PA, with 72% falling below recommended levels, and 86% consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat. Blood glucose levels were in the very high and high ranges for 23.6% ± 25.2% and 22.6% ± 7.3% of the time, respectively, with only 52.6% ± 21.8% of the time spent within the target range. Although no significant associations were found between PA or nutrition and GV, participants who met or exceeded PA and protein guidelines and consumed less fat exhibited better GV parameters. Conclusions Adolescents with T1D in Ireland are not meeting recommended PA and nutrition guidelines and show poor glycaemic control. As a pilot study, the small sample size limited statistical power, but observed trends suggest that adhering to lifestyle recommendations could improve glycaemic control in this population.