Navigating life with a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (t1d) is a journey that requires knowledge, adaptation, resilience, and patience. A t1d diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming and it is totally normal to have feelings of shock, fear, and uncertainty. It is also important to understand that with the right knowledge and support, you can live a full and healthy life with t1d.
This blog post will review the initial steps of navigating a world with t1d. We'll explore the overwhelming emotions, provide practical tips, and offer support to those newly diagnosed.
First, let's review the basics of type 1 diabetes!
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys cells in the pancreas called Beta cells. Beta cells produce insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Without insulin, our bodies cannot process glucose properly, leading to a buildup of sugar in the blood.
You can think of insulin as a key that unlocks the "door" to the cells and allows glucose from the blood to enter the cells, where the glucose can then be used as energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels which can cause damage to the body over time.
People with type 1 diabetes have to take insulin either with injections or an insulin pump and must closely monitor blood sugar levels to ensure they are in a safe range.
The weeks and months following a T1D diagnosis can be overwhelming. Building a strong support system is crucial. Don't be afraid to lean on your family, friends, and loved ones for emotional support and practical help, it truly takes a village.
Your healthcare team, including your endocrinologist, diabetes educator, and dietitian, will become invaluable partners in helping you learn to manage your blood sugars. Learning about insulin, how to treat out-of-range blood sugar levels, carbohydrate counting, and how to adjust your lifestyle accordingly are key foundational aspects to understand.
You'll likely have a series of appointments and tests to establish a baseline and create a personalized treatment plan. These may include blood tests, urine tests, and an A1C test to measure long-term blood sugar control.
Insulin therapy is essential for managing T1D. Your healthcare team will guide you on the different types of insulin and insulin delivery options available and the best approach for you.
Monitoring your blood sugar is another crucial aspect of diabetes management. Regularly checking your blood sugar with a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) will help you understand how your body responds to food, insulin, physical activity, and other variables life throws your way.
Living with type 1 diabetes involves making regular lifestyle adjustments with food and activity.
Developing an eating plan that includes carbohydrates, protein, and fat is important for balancing blood sugar levels. While carbohydrates are often victimized for raising blood sugar levels, they do not need to be avoided and you can still consume your favorite foods, even those with carbohydrates. Working with a registered dietitian can help you create a personalized meal plan that fits your preferences and lifestyle, and allows you to include the foods you love.
Regular exercise is vital for overall health and can also greatly help improve blood sugar control. However, it's important to monitor blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise to ensure you are in a safe range.
Even with a balanced diet and regular exercise, having occasional high and low blood sugars is unavoidable. Learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of high and low blood sugar levels and how to treat both is crucial.
Low blood sugar symptoms might include shakiness, sweating, anxiety, irritability, hunger, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar, promptly consume something with a source of glucose such as Transcend Glucose Gels which contain 15 grams of fast-acting carbs.
Additionally, Transcend is launching 8g Mini's - smaller glucose gels with 8 grams of carbs that can help raise your blood sugar when it is slightly low, but does not require the full 15-gram treatment!
On the other hand, high blood sugar symptoms might include frequent urination, increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger, fatigue, or blurred vision, and should be treated with insulin per your care team's recommendations.
Luckily, technology has significantly advanced diabetes management over the years. CGMs provide constant real-time blood sugar readings, helping you make decisions about food intake, insulin dosing, and lifestyle adjustments. Insulin pumps offer flexibility, reduced needle sticks, and automation in insulin delivery.
Numerous smartphone apps are also available to track blood sugar levels, food intake, and physical activity.
These tools can help ease some of the burden of diabetes.
Living with type 1 diabetes comes with emotional challenges. It's normal to experience a range of feelings, from frustration and anger to fear and anxiety. Self-care practices like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Connecting with others who understand your experience can also be incredibly supportive. Joining a diabetes support group or online community allows you to share your feelings, learn from others, ask questions, and gain valuable insights. Remember, you're not alone!
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as managing your blood sugar. Remember to celebrate your successes and be kind to yourself, especially during challenging times.
While managing type 1 diabetes effectively can significantly reduce risks, it is important to understand potential long-term complications that can occur. Conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye problems can arise if blood sugar levels aren't well-controlled over time. By prioritizing your health, you can significantly reduce your risk of complications.
Regular check-ups and screenings are crucial for early detection and intervention if any issues arise. Your healthcare team will recommend specific tests and exams based on your individual needs and risk factors.
Receiving a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes can be overwhelming, but with knowledge, support, and self-care, you can successfully manage this condition.
Consistent blood sugar monitoring, insulin, and healthy lifestyle choices are key to preventing long-term complications. Make sure to keep fast-acting carbohydrates such as Transcend Glucose Gels on hand at all times to quickly raise low blood sugars. Technology can also be a valuable tool for managing your diabetes. Don't forget to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being through self-care and support groups.
Everyone's experience with T1D is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to experiment and find the strategies that work best for you. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. With dedication and support, you can thrive with type 1 diabetes!
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About Lindsey Cohen, RDN, LDN, CDCES, NBC-HWC
Lindsey is registered dietitian, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She currently runs ABC Nutrition Solutions, a virtual private practice and online business that offers a diabetes focused blog, nutrition counseling, and content creation services. This article was last reviewed on 8.15.24
*Disclaimer: All content and information in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only.