The Experiences of Caregivers in Implementing Medical Nutrition Therapy When raising Children With Type 1 Diabetes

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a complex, chronic endocrine disorder that accounts for roughly 5-10% of the diabetic population globally. Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is the foundation of diabetes self-management. Since MNT is fundamental for managing and caring for T1DM, medical providers must understand the challenges of implementing recommendations at home. This study sought to identify what experiences caregivers face regarding implementing MNT recommendations when raising children with T1DM. A mixed-methods design collected data through focus groups and a demographic survey. The focus group took place via Zoom. Inclusion criteria were adults over the age of 18 who had a child between the ages of 10 and 18 years old who had had T1DM for over two years and who were English-speaking. A total of three caregivers participated in the focus group. This study found that caregivers typically do not follow carbohydrate counting as recommended by medical providers. Instead, carbohydrate counting is modified based on caregivers' experiences with how their child’s blood glucose responds to foods. Additionally, there is a lack of support within the school system. Caregivers often had to find outside support from medical providers or school programs to ensure adequate care and medical safety while their child attended school. The findings from this study corresponded with prior research and suggest that medical providers frequently review family MNT practices to ensure alignment with the medical team and caregivers.