Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes

Goals of Treatment

The main goal of treating type 1 diabetes is to keep blood glucose levels within a target range—preventing both high (hyperglycemia) and low (hypoglycemia) blood sugar. Proper management helps:

• Reduce symptoms

• Prevent complications (e.g., kidney disease, nerve damage, vision problems)

• Support overall well-being and long-term health

Key Components of Treatment

1. Insulin Therapy

Since the body no longer makes insulin, daily insulin replacement is essential.

• Rapid-acting insulin (e.g., lispro, aspart): Taken before meals

• Long-acting insulin (e.g., glargine, detemir): Provides background control

• Insulin delivery methods:

  • Injections (multiple daily injections or MDI)

  • Insulin pumps (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion)

  • Automated insulin delivery systems (hybrid closed-loop systems)

2. Blood Glucose Monitoring

Regular monitoring helps patients and providers make informed treatment decisions.

• Fingerstick tests using a blood glucose meter

• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for real-time glucose tracking

• Target blood sugar ranges are individualized, but typically:

  • Before meals: 80–130 mg/dL

  • 1–2 hours after meals: <180 mg/dL

3. Nutrition & Carbohydrate Counting

Understanding how food affects blood sugar is vital.

• Carbohydrate counting helps match insulin doses to meals

• Balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber are encouraged

• Registered dietitians can help create personalized meal plans

4. Physical Activity

Exercise plays a key role in diabetes management, but it affects blood sugar levels.

• Activity can lower blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity

• People with type 1 diabetes must monitor levels closely before, during, and after exercise

• Adjustments to food intake and insulin may be necessary

5. Education & Support

Ongoing education empowers individuals to manage their diabetes confidently.

• Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (CDCES) offer training in insulin use, carb counting, and glucose monitoring

• Mental health support is also important—living with diabetes can be emotionally challenging