Comparative Effects Of Sweeteners Versus No Sweeteners On Glycemic Control, Dietary Complience, And Quality Of Life In Pediatric Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Fájlok
Dátum
Szerzők
Folyóirat címe
Folyóirat ISSN
Kötet címe (évfolyam száma)
Kiadó
Absztrakt
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is the most common form of diabetes in the pediatric population. It is a chronic autoimmune disease caused by the progressive destruction of insulin-producing β-cells in the pancreas, resulting in absolute insulin deficiency and requiring lifelong dietary and insulin management. The global incidence of pediatric T1DM continues to rise, placing a significant long-term burden on young patients and their families. Maintaining optimal glycemic control is essential to prevent complications such as nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease. However, managing sugar intake in children is particularly challenging. While excessive sugar consumption can disrupt glucose regulation, sweeteners offer a potential alternative, as the complete elimination of sweet foods is often unrealistic and may negatively affect dietary adherence and quality of life. Sweeteners, both natural and artificial, have emerged as potential substitutes for traditional sugars, offering a way to improve dietary flexibility without compromising glycemic control. However, their long-term safety and effectiveness, especially in children, remain debated. This thesis explores the potential role of sweeteners in the dietary management of pediatric T1DM, focusing on their reported effects on glycemic control, dietary adherence, and quality of life. This literature review synthesizes findings from diverse peer-reviewed studies to highlight trends in sweetener use, knowledge gaps, and implications for clinical practice. To further understand the practical implications of sweetener use in pediatric T1DM management, a cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess medical professionals’ knowledge and attitudes regarding this topic. By integrating existing evidence with professional perspectives, this thesis examines whether the thoughtful use of sweeteners may support effective T1DM management.