Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong disease that is caused by the inability of the pancreas to produce little to no insulin. If left untreated, type 1 diabetes can be fatal. However, if properly addressed, a person can live a long and hardy life.

Insulin is a hormone that helps your body to use blood sugar, otherwise referred to as glucose, for energy. With the help of insulin this glucose is stored in the blood cells and can be used when the body needs it.

As we eat the fat, protein and carbohydrates are digested inside the body, and the carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is absorbed into the blood stream and carried into the blood cells.
Insulin is needed for the glucose to enter the cells. Otherwise, the glucose will remain in the blood stream and cause blood sugar levels to rise. At the same time, because glucose did not enter the cells, one feels a lack of energy.

If a person has type 1 diabetes, this is a condition that he will have for life and as long as he carefully monitors and maintains healthy blood sugar levels, he can experience a good quality of life and live long.

However, if one neglects one’s diabetic condition, in the long term high blood glucose levels can endanger your health. The blood sugar levels in a diabetic tend to fluctuate, and if you experience a sudden drop in blood glucose levels–even for a short period of time–this can make you feel too dizzy, too hot or too cold. If the drop is extremely low you may lose consciousness.

All this can be avoided simply by consulting your doctor regularly and by doing everything they tell you to do. They may prescribe a healthy diet and exercise regimen, and prescribe insulin to always keep your blood glucose levels within the safe range.

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