I was only right about Wilfred Brimley.
Since then, I've learned that there is a big difference between Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 2 is the one we all know about. This is where the body either doesn't make enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin the body produces. This is the one where folks need to watch their sugar intake and some don't even have to take insulin to manage their diabetes. (This is an incredibly super simple description of Type 2.)
Type 1 is a whole different ballgame. Type 1 is an auto-immune disease where the pancreas, which produces insulin, has stopped working. This means Type 1's are insulin dependent and need to watch both their sugar AND starches.
First a definition: Insulin. What is it? Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches, and other foods into energy needed for daily life.
So Type 1's need to figure out how many carbs they are consuming and take enough insulin to ensure their bodies can convert it to energy.
The upside is that with some careful planning, Type 1's can still enjoy birthday cake, halloween treats, and all the yummy foods anyone else can enjoy.
The downside is there is currently no cure. That's where the JDRF comes in. They are dedicated to finding better treatment options, discovering how to prevent Type 1 from occuring, and to cure Type 1 altogether.
I know this is a VERY simple description of what Type 1 is. In the future, I'll be having parents, nutrionists, and those with Type 1 themselves add to this page.
And if I've mis-stated something, by all means LET ME KNOW!!! I want this info to be as accurate as possible.
Go to my resource page to find links to The JDRF and other diabetes resources.
Emma isn't letting her Type 1 stop her from enjoying a day at Legoland!
