Evaluation of an Automated Insulin Delivery System in the Management of Postprandial Glucose Levels During a Pediatric School Camp: The Control-IQ Potato Challenge

Background: Potatoes are a staple food, especially in pediatric populations, but they pose distinct challenges for individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This study evaluated glycemic responses in youth with T1D using a second-generation automated insulin delivery system after consuming potatoes prepared by two methods: fried and boiled. Methods: The study was conducted during a 5-day school camp for unaccompanied youth with T1D, aged 11-17 years, who had been using the Tandem t:slim X2™ Control-IQ insulin pump for at least 6 months. On two separate days, participants consumed a standardized meal containing 240 g of either fried or boiled potatoes, considered as 38 g of carbohydrates. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data were collected and analyzed for all participants. Results: Our study population consisted of 31 children and adolescents (mean age 14.2 ± 1.7 years). Time in range was slightly higher after consuming boiled potatoes compared with fried potatoes, though the difference was not statistically significant (73.7% vs. 67.8%; P = 0.225). Mean glucose changes from pre-meal to 3-h post-meal were comparable between groups (−34.3 vs. −25.4 mg/dL; P = 0.517). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in the area under the curve of glucose levels. However, the percentage of bolus insulin within the 3-h post-meal period tended to be higher after fried potato consumption (20.7% vs. 11.9%; P = 0.075). Conclusions: Despite differences in glycemic index and fat content, the Tandem t:slim X2 Control-IQ system effectively maintained satisfactory glucose control within the 3-h post-meal period for both fried and boiled potatoes.