Type 1 Diabetes Basics
Understanding the fundamentals of Type 1 diabetes will help you manage it confidently. Learn what's happening in your body and how to take control.
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
A clear explanation of what's happening in your body
The Simple Explanation
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells (beta cells) in your pancreas. Without insulin, your body can't use glucose for energy.
Think of insulin as a key that unlocks your cells so glucose can enter and provide energy. Without this key, glucose builds up in your blood instead of fueling your body.
Key Facts
- It's not caused by diet or lifestyle choices
- It's not contagious or preventable
- It can develop at any age
- It requires lifelong insulin therapy
- With proper management, you can live a full, healthy life
Understanding Blood Sugar
Above 180 mg/dL (10 mmol/L)
Symptoms:
- • Increased thirst
- • Frequent urination
- • Fatigue
- • Blurred vision
- • Headache
Action:
Check ketones, give insulin as directed, drink water
80-180 mg/dL (4.4-10 mmol/L)
Goals:
- • Before meals: 80-130 mg/dL
- • 2 hours after meals: under 180 mg/dL
- • Bedtime: 100-140 mg/dL
- • A1C: under 7%
Feeling:
Energetic, focused, normal
Below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L)
Symptoms:
- • Shakiness
- • Sweating
- • Rapid heartbeat
- • Hunger
- • Confusion
Action:
15g fast-acting carbs, wait 15 minutes, recheck
Types of Insulin
Examples:
Humalog, Novolog, Apidra, Fiasp
Timing:
- • Starts working: 15 minutes
- • Peaks: 1-2 hours
- • Duration: 3-4 hours
Purpose:
Covers meals and corrects high blood sugar. Take before eating or when blood sugar is high.
Examples:
Lantus, Levemir, Tresiba, Basaglar
Timing:
- • Starts working: 1-2 hours
- • No peak (steady)
- • Duration: 12-24 hours
Purpose:
Provides background insulin coverage throughout the day and night. Usually taken once or twice daily at the same time.
Important Reminders
Ready to Learn More?
Now that you understand the basics, let's explore the tools and technology that can help you manage T1D more easily.