Grant: Project Grant

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a serious autoimmune disease where the body destroys its' own insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. T1D incidence in Canada has grown faster than the global average. The changing environment in which we live is likely driving this increase. Disruptions in our gut microbiota, or all of the microorganisms that live in our intestinal tract, has been identified as one factor that could cause our intestines to become more leaky and lead to inflammation and the development of T1D. Prebiotic fibre on the other hand is a type of fibre that promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, reduces inflammation and improves the intestinal barrier so it is less leaky. Prebiotic fibre has also been shown to improve glucose control which is important in preventing complications of T1D. At the time that a person is diagnosed with T1D, they have some remaining beta cell function which is important because it is associated with lower risk of hypoglycemia, better glycemic control and lower risk of long-term complications. We recently showed that prebiotic fibre could increase C-peptide, a marker of residual beta cell function, and reduce the frequency of hypoglycemia in children who had T1D for at least 1 year. Starting the prebiotic fibre earlier could improve outcomes even further. The goal of this randomized clinical trial is to examine the ability of prebiotic fibre supplementation to reduce blood glucose fluctuation (less hypoglycemia and better overall glucose control) as well as improve residual beta cell function, inflammation and intestinal barrier function in patients newly diagnosed with T1D. Since prebiotic fibre is known to alter the gut microbiota and the metabolites they produce, we will measure these outcomes as well. Our ultimate goal is to identify new therapies that could be given to newly diagnosed patients with T1D to improve their immediate and long-term health.