Type 1 diabetes is a health condition in which a person’s pancreas does not make enough insulin, a hormone necessary for sugar to enter cells to produce energy. Eventually, blood sugar levels rise and cause many health issues. Currently, there is no cure for type 1 diabetes. However, people can use certain preventive measures and treatments to combat the condition and improve their quality of life. Here are some details about type 1 diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes preventive measures
While there are no specific preventive measures for type 1 diabetes, here are some management strategies and preventive measures for diabetes of any kind, such as type 2 and prediabetes:
- Eliminating sugar and refined carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates and sugar both increase the blood sugar levels. If a person’s insulin production is inadequate, then the excessive blood sugar can cause issues like diabetic retinopathy and kidney-related conditions. Some examples of refined carbohydrates include white bread, breakfast cereals, and potatoes. One can consume foods containing complex carbohydrates such as oatmeal, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables instead of sugary foods and foods containing refined carbohydrates. - Avoiding large food portions
Many medical studies have found a correlation between consuming large portions of food and rising blood sugar levels and reduced insulin levels. As a result, it is safe to say that eating large amounts of food can put people at risk of developing type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Therefore, one must eat food in moderation in terms of portion size. - Staying hydrated
Water is an underrated regulator of blood sugar and insulin levels. People who consume sugary beverages can switch to water to quench their thirst. Drinking at least three to four liters of water every day can dramatically reduce a person’s chances of developing diabetes. Additionally, consuming water keeps people away from sugary drinks, so, essentially, sugar, unneeded ingredients, and preservatives. - Working out
Exercising daily for 30 to 40 minutes is a great preventive strategy for most health conditions. One can do activities like dancing, walking, swimming, and lifting weights for about 30 minutes daily for five days every week. A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity can be a long-term trigger for diabetes development.
Type 1 diabetes treatment methods
Here are some management strategies for type 1 diabetes:
- Insulin therapy
The only effective treatment method for type 1 diabetes as of now is insulin therapy. Healthcare professionals regularly increase the critical insulin levels in type 1 diabetes patients in various ways, such as through prescription-based solutions or a modified food consumption plan. - Carbohydrate counting
People with type 1 diabetes can have their carbohydrate consumption monitored medically regularly. This treatment option lets people know how much carbohydrates their body can take, corresponding to their daily insulin levels and blood sugar amounts. An endocrinologist uses carbohydrate counting to determine a person’s insulin-to-carb ratio and then take action.
