Safety and Feasibility Evaluation of Step Count Informed Meal Boluses in Type 1 Diabetes: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nPhysical activity can cause glucose fluctuations both during and after it is performed, leading to hurdles in optimal insulin dosing in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). We conducted a pilot clinical trial assessing the safety and feasibility of a physical activity-informed mealtime insulin bolus advisor that adjusts the meal bolus according to previous physical activity, based on step count data collected through an off-the-shelf physical activity tracker.\n\n\nMETHODS\nFifteen adults with T1D, each using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump with carbohydrate counting, completed two randomized crossover daily visits. Participants performed a 30 to 45-minute brisk walk before lunch and lunchtime insulin boluses were calculated based on either their standard therapy (ST) or the physical activity-informed bolus method. Post-lunch glycemic excursions were assessed using CGM readings.\n\n\nRESULTS\nThere was no significant difference between visits in the time spent in hypoglycemia in the post-lunch period (median [IQR] standard: 0 [0]% vs physical activity-informed: 0 [0]%, P\u2009=\u2009NS). Standard therapy bolus yielded a higher time spent in 70 to 180\u2009mg/dL target range (mean\u2009±\u2009standard: 77%\u2009±\u200927% vs physical activity-informed: 59%\u2009±\u200931%, P\u2009=\u2009.03) yet, it was associated with a steeper negative slope in the early postprandial phase (P\u2009=\u2009.032).\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nUse of step count to adjust mealtime insulin following a walking bout has proved to be safe and feasible in a cohort of 15 T1D subjects. Physical activity-informed insulin dosing of meals eaten soon after a walking bout has a potential of mitigating physical activity related glucose reduction in the early postprandial phase.