Living with Type 1 diabetes is a balancing act. Some days, you feel in control—your blood glucose, diet, and exercise routine—all as consistent as a pro. Other days, it seems like T1d has the upper hand. No matter what you do you cannot get control. Too many highs. Too many lows. Feeling so nervous and out of control. So, who is in control—you or type-1 diabetes?
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If you feel T1d is controlling you, as I did until five years ago, there are ways we can manage it and take back control of our lives.
I took control of T1d five years ago by leveraging the latest technology and staying mindful of diet and exercise. And, of course, having an adaptable, proactive attitude is essential!
The rapid evolution of diabetes management technology has given individuals with T1d unprecedented control. If you are still managing manually—recording glucose levels or insulin doses—you are working harder than needed. Today’s technology (CGMs, Pumps, AIDs) handle most routine aspects of T1D management today. Before I adopted technology I was pricking my fingers up to fifteen times a day and taking seven injections of insulin a day. That is a bit of a burden. One I am glad to be rid of.
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have revolutionized how we track blood glucose. With a Dexcom, Libre, or other CGM, glucose data and trends allow us to identify patterns and make timely adjustments. High and low alerts can be set to provide reminders well in advance of potential challenges. Being proactive is far more empowering than being reactive.
CGMs can also be integrated with insulin pumps in hybrid closed-loop systems—sometimes called "artificial pancreas" systems. These systems automatically adjust insulin delivery based on CGM data, insulin on board, carbs on board, and the velocity of glucose trends. Automated insulin delivery takes the guesswork out of maintaining blood glucose levels, reducing mental load and freeing energy for other adventures.
For many with T1d, food may feel like an enemy—constantly causing blood glucose spikes. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Once I adopted the technology, I embraced a balanced approach to nutrition. CGMs don’t lie about what certain foods do.
Some have found success with low-carb or even ketogenic diets to stabilize their blood sugar. Since carb intake is reduced, glucose swings become less severe, making insulin dosing more predictable. But remember, this approach is not for everyone, so it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider before making any major dietary changes. A diet tailored to your lifestyle leads to better blood sugar stability, reduced insulin requirements, and a greater sense of control over your health.
Complete dietary restrictions can, however, lead to burnout. Instead, follow the 80/20 rule: aim for healthy foods 80% of the time and allow yourself a treat 20% of the time. One should no longer feel T1d dictates your diet. Flexibility allows you to enjoy your favorite foods while staying in control.
Even with the best technology and diet, mindset is the key factor in managing Type 1 diabetes for the long-term. Shifting from a reactive to a proactive mindset, one transforms from being a victim of T1d to an empowered manager.
You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Surround yourself with an enabling environment—family, friends, and the larger diabetic community. Talking about your experiences and challenges can provide emotional support and practical ideas for better management.
Do you control your Type 1 diabetes, or does it control you? Use the right tools: a balanced diet, an aggressive attitude toward life and the best technology accessible to reduce the burdens of T1d. While T1d requires lifelong attention, it should not control you. With the right technology, responsible choices, and flexibility, you can regain control of your health and transform your relationship with diabetes from one of limitation to empowerment.
Take charge and make your diabetes management work for you—don’t be a slave to it.
Come and talk! Empowering people with Type-1 diabetes is what I love to do.
Mike
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