Abstract

Introduction: According to some studies, sufficient breastfeeding may prevent β-cell infection and type 1 diabetes mellitus. This case-control study was designed to assess the relation between type 1 diabetes mellitus and nutrition patterns in the first 2 years of life and some demographic factors. Materials and Methods: One hundred children, from the Iranian Diabetes Association with type 1 diabetes, and 200 non-diabetic children from primary and guidance school from district 3,4 and 7 of Tehran, were assessed according to the easy sampling method. The data required were gathered using a demographic and nutritional questionnaire completed by the childs' mother. For determining of the adjusted odds ratio, logistic regression was used. Results: The percent of children who were exclusively breastfed, for less than 4 months, were higher in cases than controls, statistically significant (OR=5.60, P=0.008). There were significantly more mothers, whose weight gain during pregnancy was lower than mean weight gain (10.75kg), in the control group, (OR=0.52, P=0.04). Similar numbers of children consumed cow’s milk before age 1, in both the diabetic and non diabetic groups. Conclusion: According to our findings, exclusively breastfeeding for at least 4 months and lower maternal weight gain during pregnancy prevent type 1 diabetes mellitus, whereas early introduction of weaning food, consumption of cow’s milk and higher birth weight play no role in the development of type 1 diabetes.