Diabetes Mellitus, also known as Type 1 Diabetes, used to be called juvenile onset diabetes or insulin dependant diabetes (IDDM). These two names have now been abandoned mainly because diabetes mellitus can occur at any age and because many people with type 2 diabetes are on insulin.
If you're looking for information about Diabetes Mellitus you're in the right place.
Type 1 diabetes most often occurs in childhood, often in children aged 7 - 12 years. However it can occur at any age, from tiny babies to very old people. Indications that someone has diabetes mellitus may include:
Thirst
Passing more urine
Weight loss
Great tiredness
Mood changes
Being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus can seem like a devastating blow and in the past early death was a frequent outcome. Nowadays treatment with regular doses of insulin means that a victim can expect to lead a long and healthy life.
Diabetes mellitus is regarded as an immune dysfunction though its cause is as yet unknown. . The effect of this condition is a reduction or total loss in insulin production. Insulin is the enzyme that helps glucose move from the blood stream into the cells for energy and growth. The victim needs to control their blood sugar levels to avoid it becoming too low or too high. A very low blood sugar level can lead to blackouts and coma and over time a high blood sugar level can lead to nerve and tissue damage and eventual loss of sight.
Following a sensible eating programme with frequent small meals and a controlled, low carbohydrate intake can reduce one's dependence on insulin, although care always needs to be taken that the blood sugar levels are within a normal range. It is strongly recommended that anyone suffering from diabetes mellitus is treated by a well-informed medical practitioner and seeks advice from a nutrition consultant who advocates a low carbohydrate diet. |
