Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease in which the immune system, through some unknown stimulus, mistakenly attacks and destroys the beta cells of the pancreas responsible for the production of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that takes the main role in facilitating entry into the cells of the body glucose derived from the food digested in the stomach. Because of this shortage in the production of insulin by the pancreas, the levels of glucose in the blood increase, reflecting high levels of sugar in the blood.
The consequences of this persistent high blood sugar or hyperglycemia include a variety of health complications. Prolonged inflammation of the blood vessels and nerves can lead to cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Management of Type 1 diabetes involves replacing the deficient hormone, frequent blood glucose monitoring for sugar monitoring, and lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, which will help keep the blood sugar stable and reduce risks of complications.
Increased Thirst: High levels of blood sugar cause dehydration, which is responsible for excessive thirst and dry mouth. The kidneys attempt to pass out the extra glucose by producing more amounts of urine, leading to enhanced fluid loss and persistent thirst.
Frequent Urination: This symptom is medically termed polyuria. The body tries to remove excess glucose through urine. They may feel the urge for more frequent visits to the bathroom. Some symptoms may show that blood sugar is out of control.
Extreme Fatigue: High blood sugar may affect how well the body uses glucose to produce energy. In such cases, an individual could feel extremely tired or weak. There are days when doing anything seems absolutely exhausting due to a poor conversion of energy.
Unintended Weight Loss: Despite normal or even increased consumption of food, individuals suffering from type 1 diabetes tend to lose weight. This could be explained by the breakdown of fat and muscles into energy because the body fails to utilise glucose appropriately.
Blurred Vision: High levels of blood sugar may cause a shift in fluid in and out of the lens of the eye, which can cause blurred vision. This symptom may resolve depending on blood glucose levels and perhaps will resolve as glucose levels become more controlled.
Increased Hunger: Severe and chronic hunger can lead to a situation where, due to polyphagia, the body cannot use glucose from food appropriately. The cells are not getting the energy required, and hence, one eats frequently.
Slow-Healing Wounds: Severe and chronic hunger can lead to a situation where, due to polyphagia, the body cannot use glucose from food appropriately. The cells are not getting the energy required, and hence, one eats frequently.
Irritability: Mood swings or irritability can easily be caused by fluctuations in blood sugar levels. The body struggles to maintain the blood glucose level, which influences mood and emotional stability, thus leading to irritability.
Type 1 diabetes treatment, according to Ayurveda, involves a few key elements which work together with conventional therapies. Ayurvedic Treatment for type 1 diabetes include:
Professional Ayurvedic treatment of Type 1 Diabetes requires consultancy from professionals. Jiva Ayurveda has always been one of the leaders in holistic health solutions, individualised Ayurvedic treatments, and lifestyle counselling that are tailored to the unique constitutions of patients. Experienced Ayurvedic doctors work in coordination with conventional treatments in order to provide each and everyone with comprehensive management of Type 1 diabetes.
A proper diet and an adequate amount of exercise can enable the management of type 1 diabetes. Both play a vital role in blood sugar management and the maintenance of overall health.
Hydration and Nutrition: Maintaining hydration and adjusting carbohydrate intake during the course of physical activity serves to ensure the body has enough fuel to support the exercise without allowing the blood sugar levels to dip too low.
Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The exact cause is unknown but may involve genetic and environmental factors.
Currently, it is not known how to prevent type 1 diabetes. Researchers continue to study the causes of the disease, as well as ways to prevent or delay its onset.
No, these are different types of diabetes. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease where the body does not produce insulin, while type 2 is an insulin-resistant diabetes characterised by slow destruction of the ability to produce insulin.
Yes, many with type 1 diabetes have normal, healthy lives provided there is appropriate management of insulin, diet, and lifestyle.
The frequency of blood glucose checks varies but is typically multiple times a day, including before and after meals and before and after exercise.
For high blood sugar, take insulin as your healthcare provider recommends. Drink more water. If your blood sugar level is low, eat quick-acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets, juice, or candy.
No, the treatment of type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy, as the pancreas of a patient does not produce insulin.
Insulin and food intake should be balanced throughout the exercise to avoid hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Blood glucose levels should be monitored before, during, and after exercise.
A diabetes educator is a health professional who provides education on the management of diabetes, insulin and blood glucose monitoring equipment, healthy eating and exercise, and how to cope with diabetes. Diabetes educators can also provide individualised support and education.
Ayurveda, being very cognizant of the interaction between mind and body, prescribes meditation, mindfulness, and stress management techniques to ease the emotional burden that one has to bear with Type 1 diabetes. Reduced levels of stress would bring about positive results on blood sugar levels and improve overall well-being.