The Influence of Non-Caloric Artificial Sweeteners on Youth With Type 1 Diabetes

The Influence of Non-Caloric Artificial Sweeteners on the Metabolome, Body Composition, and Glycemic Control in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes

The investigators aim to further the understanding of environmental factors that may underlie variations in body composition seen in youth with Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Non-caloric artificial sweeteners, broadly consumed in many individuals with T1D, are a modifiable dietary factor that may be associated with negative health outcomes, particularly those relevant to the future risk of diabetes-related complications.

Investigators will measure body composition (the amount of fat and muscle in the body and where the fat is stored) using a bioelectrical impedance analysis machine and DEXA scanner. Blood will be drawn for the following labs: HbA1c, lipid panel, comprehensive metabolic panel and leptin. Participants will also answer questions about their diets and consumption of artificial sweeteners.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Males and females aged 5-17 years with a clinical diagnosis of T1D of ≥ 6 months in duration
2. BMI between the 5th and 95th percentile

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of severe, active disease that requires the use of chronic medication, with the exception of well-controlled autoimmune thyroiditis/hypothyroidism or celiac disease that is well-controlled on a gluten free diet.
2. Diabetes other than T1D
3. Chronic illness known to affect glucose metabolism
4. Psychiatric impairment, with the exception of well-controlled depression or anxiety, that will affect the ability to participate in the study
5. Female participants of child-bearing age with reproductive potential must not be knowingly pregnant
6. Any condition that, in the investigator's opinion, may compromise study participation or may confound the interpretation of the study results