Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces very little or no insulin at all, notes MayoClinic.com. Previously, Type 1 diabetes was known as juvenile diabetes because it often occurs during adolescence. Managing Type 1 diabetes requires diet changes, frequent monitoring of blood sugar and insulin injections to maintain blood sugar control. Keeping blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible can help prevent complications from occurring with the kidneys, heart, eyes and nerves.
Step 1
Monitor your blood sugar several times each day. Typically, patients with Type 1 diabetes are instructed to check their blood sugar first thing in the morning and two hours after each meal. Blood sugar can be monitored with a home blood glucose monitor where you prick your finger and apply a drop of blood to a test strip inserted into the monitor. Other devices are available that provide continuous blood sugar monitoring through an insulin pump, or other continuous monitoring device. This equipment measures blood sugar through a small needle inserted under the skin, which is held in place by an adhesive pad. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that a blood sugar reading of less than 110mg/DL prior to meals and less than 120mg/dL at bedtime is normal.
Step 2
Administer insulin as directed by your doctor. Insulin is required by your body to allow cells to utilize sugar in the blood for energy. FamilyDoctor.org notes that Type 1 diabetics usually require an insulin injection prior to each meal and before bed each night. Depending on your situation, your doctor may prescribe a combination of insulin, which works in different ways. Your doctor may also recommend the use of an insulin pump to provide around-the-clock insulin therapy without constantly giving yourself injections. Each patient is different and an insulin regimen that works for one diabetic may not work for another.
Step 3
Eat a healthy diet composed largely of fruits, vegetables and whole grains while limiting refined sugars and sweets. Carbohydrate intake should total 45 to 65 percent of your daily calorie intake, while fats should total 25 to 35 percent and protein should total 12 to 20 percent. Carbohydrates come in different forms, some of which cause blood sugar to spike for a short time, while others cause blood sugar to rise gradually, but remain elevated for longer periods of time. Meet with a registered dietitian to create a customized meal plan.
Step 4
Exercise daily to increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin and to lower the amount of glucose in the blood stream. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that Type 1 diabetics should monitor their blood sugar carefully before and after exercising. If blood sugar levels exceed 300 or fall below 100, exercise should be avoided until levels are closer to a normal range. Insulin should also not be administered near muscles that will be exercised, otherwise, low blood sugar could occur due to the insulin being utilized too quickly.
Things You'll Need
- Blood glucose monitor
- Insulin
