Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which your body no longer produces insulin. That means you need to administer insulin yourself to keep your blood sugar levels balanced. It’s something that changes your life, but with the right knowledge, support, and lifestyle, you can manage it well.
In this blog, you’ll read what type 1 diabetes is, what the causes and symptoms are, how it’s treated, and how exercise can help. You’ll also discover how the MotiMove app can support you in a healthier and more active lifestyle.
What you’ll read in this blog
- What is type 1 diabetes?
- Causes of type 1 diabetes
- Symptoms you should recognize
- How is the diagnosis made?
- Treatment of type 1 diabetes
- The importance of exercise and nutrition
- How the MotiMove app can help
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. This means your immune system accidentally attacks the cells in your pancreas that produce insulin. Without insulin, your body can’t properly absorb sugar (glucose) from the blood. As a result, your blood sugar rises, which can be harmful to your organs and blood vessels.
Causes of type 1 diabetes
The exact cause is not yet known, but there are factors that may play a role:
- Heredity; in some families, type 1 diabetes is more common.
- Immune response; the immune system attacks the body’s own cells.
- Environmental factors; for example, certain viruses that activate the immune system.
It’s important to know that type 1 diabetes is not caused by unhealthy eating or too little exercise.
Symptoms you should recognize
Common complaints include:
- Being thirsty often and urinating frequently
- Rapid weight loss without a reason
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Nausea or stomach pain
Do you recognize several of these symptoms? Always visit your GP for an examination.
How is the diagnosis made?
The doctor measures your blood sugar and can also perform blood tests for antibodies. Sometimes a hospital admission is needed to start insulin immediately and set you up properly.
Treatment of type 1 diabetes
The treatment always consists of:
- Administering insulin via a pen or pump
- Measuring blood sugar with a finger prick or glucose meter
- Paying attention to nutrition and counting carbohydrates
- Getting enough exercise for more stable blood sugar
The importance of exercise and nutrition
Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively. It leads to:
- Lower and more stable blood sugars
- More energy
- Less stress
- Stronger muscles and joints
Nutrition is important too: choose high-fiber products, vegetables, healthy fats, and avoid quick sugars.
How the MotiMove app can help
The MotiMove app is ideal for people with type 1 diabetes who want to stay active safely and responsibly.
With MotiMove you can:
- Follow exercise videos at your level
- Track statistics about your activity and progress
- Receive tips and insights about pain, movement, and health
- Stay motivated to exercise regularly, which can improve your blood sugar
Download MotiMove today and discover how small steps can deliver big gains for your health.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can you cure type 1 diabetes?
No, but you can keep it well under control with insulin, nutrition, and exercise.
Is type 1 diabetes the same as type 2?
No, type 1 is an autoimmune disease in which you no longer produce insulin. In type 2, your body still produces insulin but responds less effectively to it.
Can I exercise with type 1 diabetes?
Yes, exercise is actually beneficial. Do keep an eye on your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise.
Can stress raise my blood sugar?
Yes, stress hormones can cause your blood sugar to rise.
With the right approach, you can live an active and healthy life despite type 1 diabetes.
And with MotiMove, being active becomes easier and more fun.