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Nutritional Interventions in Type 1 Diabetes: Boosting Residual GLP-1 Responses-Is It an Option?
Maria Grammatiki1, Xanthippi Tsekmekidou1, Theocharis Koufakis2
1Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Diabetes Center, First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA University Hospital, 54636 Thessaloniki, PC, Greece.
Nutrients
|February 27, 2026
Summary
Dietary and lifestyle changes may enhance incretin hormones like GLP-1 in early Type 1 diabetes (T1D). These strategies could prolong residual beta-cell function and improve glycemic control alongside insulin therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Type 1 diabetes (T1D) involves autoimmune beta-cell destruction, leading to insulin dependence.
- Early-stage T1D (Stages 1-2) retains residual beta-cell function responsive to incretin signaling.
- Incretins (GLP-1, GIP) regulate insulin secretion and glucagon suppression; GLP-1 shows preclinical beta-cell protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review dietary and lifestyle interventions that enhance endogenous incretin responses in early T1D.
- To explore the potential of these interventions as adjuncts to insulin therapy, especially with immunomodulatory approaches.
- To highlight the need for T1D-specific research on modulating residual incretin function.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature on nutrition, lifestyle, and incretin function.
- Examination of mechanisms by which dietary components influence GLP-1 secretion.
- Analysis of potential synergistic effects with emerging beta-cell-preserving therapies.
Main Results:
- High-fiber diets, low-glycemic index carbohydrates, and Mediterranean patterns may increase GLP-1.
- Mechanisms include microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids and distal nutrient delivery.
- Evidence is stronger in non-T1D populations; T1D-specific trial data is limited.
Conclusions:
- Nutrition and lifestyle interventions can modulate residual incretins in early T1D.
- These strategies may prolong early disease stages and improve glycemic control as insulin adjuncts.
- Further stage-targeted studies are needed to confirm efficacy and optimal implementation in T1D.
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