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Experience With Intermittent Caloric Restriction in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes
Alison Wong1, Raul Herrera1,2, Krista Varady3
1University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, umn.edu.
Journal of Diabetes Research
|August 6, 2026
Summary
Individuals with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are using intermittent caloric restriction (ICR), primarily time-restricted eating (TRE). While generally safe with rare hypoglycemia and no diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Health
- Diabetes Management
Background:
- Intermittent caloric restriction (ICR) popularity is rising, yet its prevalence and experiences among individuals with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) remain largely unknown.
- Understanding patient-led dietary interventions is crucial for comprehensive diabetes care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of ICR use in adults with T1DM.
- To assess the reported outcomes and safety of ICR, including hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), in this population.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to T1DM patients aged 18-89 in Minnesota via electronic health records.
- Data collected included demographics, clinical information, and details on ICR practices (time-restricted eating [TRE] and intermittent fasting [IF]).
- 124 T1DM patients responded, with 39 completing the survey regarding their ICR use.
Main Results:
- Of 39 ICR participants, 34 practiced TRE and 5 practiced IF. Mean age was 42.8 years, mean BMI was 28.2 kg/m².
- TRE participants reported an average weight loss of 6.0 kg, while IF participants reported an average of 3.5 kg.
- Five TRE participants and one IF participant reported hypoglycemia; no diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) was reported. Only six participants informed their healthcare providers.
Conclusions:
- T1DM patients are actively engaging in ICR, predominantly TRE, with a low incidence of hypoglycemia and no DKA.
- Further research is warranted to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of ICR strategies in T1DM management.
- Healthcare provider awareness of patient ICR practices is notably low, highlighting a gap in communication and integrated care.
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