Investigating a ketogenic diet for managing type 1 diabetes
Official title: EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF A KETOGENIC DIET IN TYPE 1 DIABETES
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11061384 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a very-low-carb ketogenic diet might help people with type 1 diabetes by making their blood sugar levels more stable and reducing the amount of insulin they need, all while keeping an eye on their safety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $628,553 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK137837-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061384 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who are seeking alternative methods to manage their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have type 1 diabetes or those who are unable to adhere to a strict dietary regimen may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of a very-low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet on individuals with type 1 diabetes. The study aims to determine if this diet can help reduce blood sugar variability and lower insulin requirements, potentially improving overall diabetes management. Participants will be monitored for safety and tolerability, as there are concerns about risks such as hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. The research will be conducted at two sites, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the diet's efficacy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new dietary approach to better manage type 1 diabetes and reduce reliance on insulin.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been observational studies suggesting benefits of a ketogenic diet in type 1 diabetes, this research is novel as it aims to conduct randomized controlled trials for longer durations.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Klein, Samuel — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Klein, Samuel
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Technological and Educational Approaches to Restore Hypoglycemia Awareness in Type 1 Diabetes
A two-arm study in adults with type 1 diabetes tests whether high-tech glucose control plus education or targeted training can help people regain awareness of low blood sugar.
-
Techniques for restoring awareness of low blood sugar in adults with type 1 diabetes
A randomized trial compares different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize when their blood sugar is dipping so they can act quickly.
-
Treating impaired hypoglycemia awareness in type 1 diabetes with targeted education and technology
This study tests two treatment approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes who often don’t realize their blood sugar is getting too low, using a mix of technology and education in two large groups.
-
Helping people with type 1 diabetes regain awareness of dangerous lows
A UK study tests two different approaches to help adults with type 1 diabetes recognize and respond to low blood sugar by comparing a high-tech insulin system with targeted education.
-
How the pancreas environment affects insulin-producing cells in type 1 diabetes
Researchers are studying how the surrounding tissue of the pancreas and its proteins influence insulin-producing cells in people with type 1 diabetes.
-
Understanding how hypoglycemia awareness changes in adults with type 1 diabetes and how automated insulin delivery and exercise might help restore it
This study will look at adults with type 1 diabetes to see how their awareness of low blood sugar evolves over time and whether automated insulin delivery and high-intensity exercise can help restore that awareness.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.