The Effect of Probiotics Supplementation on Glucose Homeostasis, Lipid Profile and Interleukin (IL)-21 and IL-22 Levels in Children With Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized Placebo-controlled Trial

Background: Probiotics influence immune homeostasis, through altering gut microbiota. The efficacy of probiotics in diabetes has been shown in preclinical settings as well as in human trials. Interleukin (IL)-21 and IL22 have been implicated in the pathogenesis of T1D. Objectives: to assess the effect of oral supplementation with probiotics on glycemic control as well as IL-21 and IL-22 levels in children with T1D. Methods: This randomized-controlled trial study included 70 children with T1D. Enrolled children aged 5-18 years with disease duration > 1 year. They were randomly assigned into two groups; intervention group (group A) who received oral probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 (108 CFU) 0.5 mg once daily. The other group (group B) did not receive any supplementation and served as a control group. Both groups were followed-up for 6 months with assessment of fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, IL-21 and IL-22 levels.