Early sugar exposure in infancy and how it affects glucose and obesity risk

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

Researchers will enroll 200 infants at 3 months and monitor their glucose patterns every few months using a CGM device. They will examine whether early exposure to added sugars is linked to greater glucose variability and higher weight gain in the first two years of life. The study uses continuous glucose monitoring data, growth measurements, and dietary information to explore connections between early nutrition, glucose control, and obesity risk. The goal is to understand if early sugar intake sets a metabolic trajectory that increases diabetes risk later. Participation would involve regular visits and wearing a CGM sensor during key ages.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo)
  Kansas City, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Kong, Kai Ling — Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo)
• Study coordinator: Kong, Kai Ling

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.