Using prebiotics to improve glycemic control in type 1 diabetes

Effect of Prebiotic Fibre on Glycemic Control, Gut Microbiota, and Intestinal Permeability in Type 1 Diabetes

Not applicable Interventional University of Calgary · NCT04963777

This study is testing whether taking prebiotics can help people with type 1 diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels while they continue their insulin therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment144 (estimated)
Ages7 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Calgary Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Calgary, Alberta and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04963777 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of prebiotic supplementation on glycemic control in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Participants will receive either prebiotics or a placebo for six months alongside their insulin therapy. The study aims to assess changes in the frequency of hypoglycemia, glycemic variability, and gut microbiota composition, as well as other metabolic and inflammatory markers. By understanding the mechanisms through which prebiotics may influence glucose regulation, the trial seeks to provide insights into potential adjunct therapies for managing type 1 diabetes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 7 years and older who have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes within the last 12 months.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic gastrointestinal conditions or those on medications that affect gut microbiota may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved glycemic control and reduced hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of prebiotics in diabetes management is an emerging area, previous studies have shown promising results in improving gut health and metabolic outcomes, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Lead Site:

* Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (based on Diabetes Canada 2018 Clinical Practice Guideline diagnostic criteria) in the previous 12 months.
* Age 7 years and above (as per our pilot trial and able to complete the required tests).

Subsites:

* Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (based on Diabetes Canada 2018 Clinical Practice Guideline diagnostic criteria) in the previous 12 months.
* Age 7 to 17 years of age.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Regular use of medications or supplements that could affect gut microbiota (examples: antibiotics, probiotic or prebiotic supplements, laxatives) within 3 months prior to enrollment.
* Previous intestinal surgery.
* Another chronic medical condition that could affect gut microbiota or intestinal permeability (examples: Crohn's disease, Celiac disease, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome)
* Presence of active infection, pregnancy or lactation.

Where this trial is running

Calgary, Alberta and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Type 1 DiabetesGut microbiotaGlycemic controlPrebioticOligofructose-enriched inulinHypoglycemia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.