Dietary treatment of type 1 diabetes – once upon a time versus today

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes is a disease in which nutrition is an integral part of treatment. The type of recommended diets for therapeutic purposes has changed over the years. Proper metabolic equalization of the disease is an enormous challenge and problem for patients at the same time. This review paper discusses the history of dietary treatment of type 1 diabetes and refers to current dietary recommendations and their impact on the patient's health. The important roles of glycaemic index and glycaemic load are pointed out for proper treatment and slowing of the development of complications. Attention is also paid to the role of dietary education as an integral part of therapeutic management. Continuous progress in the development of technology is of great help to the patient.