Your informative quick T1D starter guide and what you can do

Type 1 is essentially an auto-immune condition where your pancreas cannot make insulin, or it makes a very little amount of insulin. The reason for this is due to the body’s immune system attacking the beta cells in the pancreas, which is what produces insulin. T1D represents around 10% of all diabetes cases, according to Diabetes Australia and is one of the most common chronic conditions in childhood.

 
What’s the difference between T1D and T2D?
 
These two different types are often confused with each other. The major difference is that T1D is a genetic condition that often shows up in the earlier stages of life. T2D is often associated with lifestyle-related causes and develops over-time.
 
With type 1, your body attacks the cells in the pancreas and therefore limits and affects the production of insulin. With type 2, your body simply cannot make enough insulin. And if it does, the insulin made, unfortunately, doesn’t work properly.

 
Why is insulin important?
 
The importance of insulin for a human body is that it helps blood sugar enter our cells and be used for energy. A lack of insulin would mean that the blood sugar (or glucose) builds up in the bloodstream and the body. The excess glucose will then get washed out of the body through urine and this leads to dehydration. 
 

What causes T1D?
 
T1D is most commonly developed in young people but can happen at any age. At the moment, there are no links to any exact causes of T1D. However, what we do know at the moment is that T1D is associated with strong genetic links and cannot be prevented. T1D has nothing to do with lifestyle choices or habits. The choice to maintain a healthy and mindful  lifestyle will still help to manage all types of diabetes, which includes T1D. 
 
Usually how your doctor confirms T1D diagnosis is through a blood test to check and see if you have auto-antibodies.

 
If there is no prevention at the moment, what can I do to treat T1D?
 

1. Follow your doctor’s/health care team’s recommendations for a personalised and mindful plan that can help you live a healthy lifestyle
2. Manage blood sugar levels
3. Ensuring you go to regular health checks. Don’t be afraid of them!
4. Gather diabetes education and support. We’ve created an online safe and supportive space to connect people living with diabetes or carers from all over the world together. Join here.
1. You can also visit https://www.jdrf.org/t1d-resources/ for more information on how to manage T1D

• Excessive thirst from feeling dehydrated
• Feeling tired and lethargic
• Cuts on your body that heal slowly
• Constant hunger
• Noticeable itching or skin infections
• Blurred vision 
• Unexpected weight loss
• Mood swings
• Dizziness 

 
If you don’t feel good in general or think there is a chance you could have diabetes, don’t be afraid to go see your doctor to test your blood sugar levels. Untreated diabetes can be fatal and can lead to long-term health issues. 
 
For T1D management tips, explore our T1D Management category