You can be diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at any age, however type 1 diabetes typically occurs in people under 40, this is the most common form of diabetes in children.
There are an estimated 2.9 million people diagnosed with diabetes in the U.K alone with 10/15 % of this figure being a type 1 diagnosis.
Insulin within the body is a hormone produced by the pancreas a large gland located behind the stomach. Insulin allows glucose/sugar to enter the body's energy cells from the blood stream to be used as fuel to provide us energy to work, play and enjoy our lives. Glucose is digested and broken down from carbohydrates but also produced by our liver. Type 1 diabetics produce no insulin so glucose builds up in the blood stream and cannot be dispersed as energy. The effects of this in someone who is undiagnosed or who does not take there insulin injections correctly can be very dangerous and the body will start to break down the fat stores and protein to replace its energy source. This can cause weight loss and/or muscle loss and the glucose is passed when urination occurs!
Once you are diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes you will need to take regular insulin doses to maintain lower blood sugars.
What causes Diabetes?
It is not known for sure why the pancreatic insulin-producing beta cells are destroyed or damaged but it is likely that the body has an abnormal reaction to the cells, it could well be triggered by a virus or an infection of some kind.
It is commonly thought to be caused by a combination of genetics and environmental triggers as well as viruses or infections. This then causes the immune system to destroy its own insulin reproductive beta cells.
It is not well understood as to why the body behaves like this in diabetic sufferers.
Unfortunately you cannot reverse the effects of type 1 diabetes you will need to learn and monitor your food intake, physical activity output and general well-being regularly with the help of a blood glucose monitor, this will give an indication to how certain foods, activities and even stress effects your blood glucose readings which will indicate your need for insulin.
Complications linked to Type 1 Diabetes.
Heart Disease
Strokes
Retinopathy
Kidney Disease
Neuropathy
* Diabetes is a very complicated and varied disease, if you have any concerns or questions about diabetes or any other health issues please consult your Doctor or GP.
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