The Impact of a Low-Carbohydrate Diet Versus Standard Dietary Intake on Glycemic Variability and Quality of Life Among Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Over Three Months

Musimenta Allen

Department of Nursing Kampala International University Uganda

Email: musimenta@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic condition requiring effective management strategies to achieve glycemic stability and enhance quality of life (QoL). Adolescents with T1DM face unique challenges due to physiological and psychosocial factors, making dietary interventions crucial for optimizing outcomes. This review compared the effects of a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) versus standard dietary intake (SDI) on glycemic variability and QoL among adolescents with T1DM over three months. Using a narrative review methodology, the article synthesized current evidence, focusing on dietary impacts on glycemic control and psychosocial well-being. LCDs, characterized by reduced carbohydrate intake, minimize postprandial glucose excursions, leading to improved glycemic stability, as indicated by metrics such as time-in-range (TIR). However, LCD adherence may be hindered by nutritional challenges and social constraints. Conversely, SDI allows greater flexibility and dietary satisfaction but often results in wider glycemic fluctuations due to the complexity of carbohydrate management. QoL outcomes show a dichotomy: LCDs reduce diabetes-related distress but may limit social interactions, while SDI promotes dietary flexibility yet risks increased glycemic variability. The review highlighted the importance of individualized dietary strategies, multidisciplinary support, and technological integration to optimize both glycemic control and QoL. Further research is needed to refine dietary recommendations and improve accessibility to effective interventions for adolescents with T1DM.

Keywords: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), Low-Carbohydrate Diet (LCD), Standard Dietary Intake (SDI), Glycemic Variability, Quality of Life (QoL).

CITE AS: Musimenta Allen (2025). The Impact of a Low-Carbohydrate Diet Versus Standard Dietary Intake on Glycemic Variability and Quality of Life Among Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Over Three Months. INOSR APPLIED SCIENCES 13(1):6-10. https://doi.org/10.59298/INOSRAS/2025/13.1.610000