Influence of dietary glycemic index on anthropometric and biochemical parameters in patients with type 1 diabetes

Objective: To assess the influence of a non-pharmacological intervention, consisting of a diet low glycemic index (GI) for a period of six months on metabolic control and anthropometric parameters in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Subjects and method: Ninety-six type 1 diabetic patients underwent an anthropometric, biochemical and dietary assessment before and six months after the prescription of diet based on the glycemic index. Results: After six months we observed a decrease in A1C levels (9,8 2,+/- 26% vs. 9,1 +/- 2.16%; p = 0,023) and increase in body weight (61,3 +/- 11,68 kg vs. 62,8 +/- 12,07 kg; p = 0,04). Conclusion: A low GI diet improved glycemic control in patients with DM1. Further studies with longer time of follow-up are needed to assess if patients' adherence to this kind of diet influences the maintenance of glycemic control. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2010;54(9):801-6