Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone necessary for moving glucose (blood sugar) from the blood to the cells of the body. Although type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, it usually appears in children and adults under the age of 30. The link between type 1 diabetes and early infant nutrition is not well understood.

This study, called Trial to Reduce IDDM in the Genetically at Risk (TRIGR), is the first study ever aimed at primary prevention of type 1 diabetes. Researchers are recruiting families from 15 countries to take part in the study. Newborn infants are eligible if at least one family member has type 1 diabetes and the infant possesses a certain genetic makeup that increasing the risk of developing the condition. The study began in May 2002 and will continue for the next 10 years.

The goal of this study is to evaluate the dietary recommendations for infants at risk of developing type 1 diabetes. Dietary recommendations for these infants may be revised due to the results of the study.

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