Most people don’t, and the consequences can be deadly.

Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in children and adolescents. The incidence of type 1 diabetes in the UK increased by 21 percent between 2001 and 2009.

A recent study showed that only 14 percent of parents are aware of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes. Not knowing the symptoms of this serious disease can place your children at risk. The symptoms of type 1 diabetes can be subtle, and if not diagnosed early enough, may lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which is the leading cause of death in children with type 1 diabetes. According to Barbara Young, chief executive of Diabetes UK, "In too many cases, children with type 1 diabetes are not diagnosed until they are seriously ill, and in a few tragic cases, this delay in diagnosis can be fatal."

This is why Diabetes UK has recently launched a campaign to increase awareness of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes. It’s called the 4 Ts:

  • Toilet - using a toilet more frequently. Diabetes can cause more frequent urination. Heavier diapers in babies, or bed wetting in a previously dry child.
  • Thirsty - drinking more fluids than usual.
  • Tired – an increase in feelings of fatigue.
  • Thinner - weight loss is a common symptom.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. That means the immune system attacks and destroys a person’s own pancreas. Why does this happen? There is a genetic predisposition, altered intestinal function (leaky gut and dysbiosis), and there is usually an environmental trigger, such as an infection. Addressing autoimmunity and lowering inflammation helps patients achieve better blood sugar control. The herbal supplement Glicemic Balance helps achieve a healthier blood sugar, and there is a great deal of information in our book Healing Autoimmune Disease: A plan to help your immune system and reduce inflammation.

Reference: JAMA, 5 Nov. 2014.

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