Maintaining the gluten-free diet: The key to improve glycemic metrics in youths with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease

Aims: Gluten-free diets (GFD) were considered as high glycemic index and/or high content of saturated fats; this could affect keeping good metabolic control in individuals with both type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease (CD). Our objective was to analyze time in range and other continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics with real-time CGM systems, in youths with T1D and CD, compared to those with T1D only. Methods: An observational case-control study, comparing youths aged 8-18 years with T1D and CD, with people with T1D only was performed. The degree of maintaining GFD was assessed through anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies and dietary interview, and maintaining Mediterranean diet through the KIDMED questionnaire. Results: 86 youths with T1D and CD, 167 controls with T1D only, were included in the study and the two groups reported similar real-time CGM metrics. Among the first group, 29 % were not completely maintaining GFD and compared to people with T1D only they showed higher hyperglycemia rates (% time above range: 38.72 +/- 20.94 vs 34.34 +/- 20.94; P = 0.039). Conclusions: Individuals with T1D and CD who maintain GFD presented similar glucose metrics compared to youths with T1D only. Individuals not strictly maintaining GFD presented higher hyperglycemia rates.