Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which your body cannot produce insulin, a hormone that helps turn sugar (glucose) into energy. Without insulin, blood sugar levels can rise, potentially causing serious health issues. While a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, TidalHealth provides support and guidance for every stage of care.
Understanding Type 1 Diabetes
People with Type 1 diabetes manage their blood sugar through daily insulin and lifestyle adjustments. Emotions such as fear, shock, or guilt after diagnosis are normal. Open communication with healthcare providers, family, and friends is important. With education and support, living with Type 1 diabetes becomes manageable.
Support from Your Care Team
Managing Type 1 diabetes is a team effort. Your care team may include endocrinologists, nurses, registered dietitians, pharmacists, and certified diabetes educators. They help you:
- Make healthy food choices and create a personal meal plan
- Learn to monitor blood sugar levels
- Manage insulin and other medications
- Incorporate safe physical activity
- Cope with the emotional aspects of diabetes
Family, friends, and peer support groups also play a key role in ongoing care.
Everyday Care for Type 1 Diabetes
Managing Type 1 diabetes requires balancing food, activity, and insulin:
- Nutrition: Eat regular meals with a variety of foods, focusing on carbohydrates, which affect blood sugar the most. Tools like the divided plate method help simplify meal planning.
- Physical Activity: Regular movement helps lower blood sugar, increase energy, reduce stress, and improve insulin use. Begin gradually if new to exercise and build up over time.
Ongoing Monitoring and Tests
Regular checkups and tests help maintain health and prevent complications. Your care team will monitor:
- Blood sugar levels
- Blood pressure
- Eye health
- Kidney function
- Other health markers as needed
Tracking results allows for timely adjustments and early detection of potential issues.
Education and Support at TidalHealth
Education is key to managing Type 1 diabetes. TidalHealth offers:
- Support groups and educational sessions for children and adults
- Diabetes self-management training
- Nutrition guidance from registered dietitians
- Instruction on devices such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors
What is Type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition in which your body does not produce insulin. Daily management with insulin, monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments is necessary.
How can I cope after being diagnosed?
Feeling fear, shock, or anger is normal. Support from healthcare providers, friends, family, and peer groups can help you adjust and live a full, active life.
What changes will I need to make in daily life?
Key changes include:
- Checking blood sugar regularly
- Taking insulin or using an insulin pump
- Balancing meals, snacks, and activity
- Attending regular checkups
What should I eat?
Eat a balanced diet, focusing on carbohydrates, as they have the largest effect on blood sugar. Tools like the divided plate method help simplify meal planning. Registered dietitians at TidalHealth can tailor a plan to your lifestyle.
How important is exercise, and how do I get started?
Physical activity lowers blood sugar, helps with weight management, and improves well-being. Start with enjoyable, manageable activities and gradually increase.
What exams or tests should I keep up with?
Regular checkups monitor blood pressure, eye, kidney, and foot health, along with overall well-being. Keeping records of your results helps your care team manage your condition effectively.
What if I need extra support?
TidalHealth provides diabetes educators, nurses, dietitians, and care staff to answer questions, offer educational programs, and run support groups for adults and children. Peer connections help patients feel understood and encouraged.
