Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is often a misunderstood condition. For Diabetes Awareness Month, we’re taking a look at some of the most common misconceptions about T1D and setting the record straight!
Aren’t type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes basically the same thing?
Though they share some similarities, type 1 diabetes and type 1 diabetes have different causes, effects, and treatments.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that is not preventable. In T1D, the body destroys the cells that produce insulin, a hormone everyone needs to get energy from food. T1D is the less common form of diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disease in which the body makes insulin but does not use it properly. T2D is the most common type of diabetes.
Learn About The Differences Between Type 1 Diabetes And Type 2 Diabetes.
I read that cinnamon can cure type 1 diabetes. Have you tried that?
There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes. The only treatment for T1D is insulin. Adjunctive therapies can also be used alongside insulin to achieve glucose control. (Hint: it’s not cinnamon.)
Learn About Type 1 Diabetes Treatments.
Having type 1 diabetes isn’t that hard; all you have to do is give yourself an insulin shot sometimes!
Managing type 1 diabetes is more than an insulin shot! While administering insulin is a crucial part of T1D, there are more daily steps people with T1D must take to stay healthy.
People with T1D need to check their blood sugar frequently during the day and overnight. This can be done with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or glucometer. If blood-sugar levels are high, insulin is usually administered. If blood-sugar levels are low, fast-acting glucose is usually ingested.
Learn About Checking Blood Sugar.
Counting carbohydrates is also a necessary part of T1D management. When you have type 1 diabetes, it’s important to know how many carbs you consume each time you eat or drink. This is so you can determine how much insulin you need to take at any given time to control your blood-sugar levels.
Learn About Counting Carbs.
Finally, administering insulin is necessary for people living with T1D. It can be done through injection, inhaler, or pump.
Learn About Administering Insulin.
How did your child get type 1 diabetes? They eat healthy and aren’t overweight!
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented. A type 1 diabetes diagnosis is not influenced by factors such as lifestyle, activity level, socioeconomic status, or habits.
While we are still funding research to determine the exact causes of T1D, we know a few factors are at play, including genes and family history, environmental triggers, and immune response.
Learn About The Causes Of Type 1 Diabetes.
You still have type 1 diabetes as an adult? I thought it was juvenile diabetes.
The condition that was once called “juvenile diabetes” is now medically known as type 1 diabetes because it impacts all ages and stages of life. In fact, more than 50% of new T1D diagnoses are in people over the age of 20.
Learn About The Prevalence of Type 1 Diabetes.
I thought a cure was only five years away.
Our purpose is clear: As we drive toward curing type 1 diabetes, we help make everyday life better for the people who face it. Breakthrough T1D invests in the most promising research to advance treatments, influence policy, and improve access to care for those all over the world who need it.
We’re closer than ever to cures for T1D. Giant leaps are happening nearly every day, from advanced technologies and early detection to cell therapies and disease-modifying therapies. We won’t stop until this condition is a thing of the past.
Learn About Our Research For Type 1 Diabetes Cures.
If you stop eating carbs, you’ll be healthier.
There’s no such thing as a diet all people with type 1 diabetes should follow. In reality, people with T1D can eat anything with the right amounts of insulin. But just like those without diabetes, eating a balanced diet full of whole foods is one of the most important things you can do for your health.
People living with T1D eat a variety of diets that they feel work best for them, including low carb. Speak with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your diet.
Learn About Food And Nutrition With Type 1 Diabetes.
