One of the side-effects of intensive insulin therapy is weight gain, linked to hypoglycemia: when insulin is injected or high/fixed basal insulin levels are used, the only way to avoid such hypoglycemia is the intake of carbohydrates, as the insulin is already in the system. We hypothesized that appropriate use of an insulin pump (using its ability to temporarily reduce or stop basal insulin delivery) could result not only in better glucose control but also in the stabilization or even reduction of weight.

We are currently investigating this cross-sectionally as well as longitudinally in our young people with type 1 diabetes. Factors such as experience with pump use, education level, and quality of life are also being studied.