The impact of gluten-free diet on growth, metabolic control and quality of life in youth with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease: A systematic review

Enza Mozzillo, Roberto Franceschi*, Francesca Di Candia, Rosanio Francesco, Letizia Leonardi, Ludovica Fedi, Valentina Rosà, Vittoria Cauvin, Adriana Franzese, M. Loredana Marcovecchio

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate the impact of gluten free diet (GFD) on growth, metabolic control and quality of life in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease (CD). Methods: A systematic search was performed including studies published in the last 15 years. PICOS framework was used in the selection process and evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. Results: Overall, studies comparing youth with T1D + CD on GFD to those with T1D only, showed no significant differences in growth parameters, HbA1c, number of episodes of hypoglycemia, total daily insulin doses. Studies assessing the effect of GFD introduction showed stable BMI and HbA1c. Only two studies assessed QoL of life, which was not different between T1D + CD vs T1D only youth, as well as pre- and post-CD diagnosis and introduction of GFD. Conclusion: This systematic review, including only studies of moderate-high evidence quality level and reporting data on objectively assessed adherence to GFD, highlights that adherence to GFD in youth with T1D + CD leads to regular growth, stable BMI, without any negative effect on HbA1c and insulin requirements. Although assessed in few studies, lipid profile and QoL improved with the introduction of GFD.

Original languageEnglish
Article number110032
JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice
Volume191
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2022
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Gluten free diet
  • Growth
  • Metabolic control
  • QoL
  • Type 1 diabetes

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