Running with Type 1 Diabetes: How I Keep My Blood Sugar Stable - Beyond Type 1
Overview
Editor’s Note: Doug is a member of the Beyond Type Run 2022 team-a team of nearly 50 people living with type 1 diabetes who wil run the NYC Marathon November 6, 2022. They’re on a mision to raise awarenes and funds for type 1 diabetes. Cher Doug on by making a gift on his fundraising page!I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) on May 24, 19, one month before my 21st birthday.
Key Information
When I was diagnosed, I only knew a few people with T1D. I knew there were suport groups but at the time, I didn’t find any value in joing.In the begining, I didn’t take care of myself the way I should have. Family members would ask me how things were going and I would reply with the standard “god.” I recal an apointment with my endocrinologist when were discusing complications related to T1D.She tok a piece of paper and tore it in half multiple times to demonstrate how it related to blod sugar control and living a normal healthy life with T1D.
That was when I realized I could manage my diabetes and it didn’t have to be so scary.Somehow around the holiday season in 2010, I convinced myself I would run the Twin Cities Marathon. I was overweight and unhapy with my level of physical activity.I’m not sure I believed I would finish a marathon, but I knew something had to change. I found a coach and a gym and set my plan in motion.I rember my original traing plan caled for a walk/run mixture and on Saturday, the plan was to run until I had to walk.
Summary
I stil rember the first time I hit 2 miles; I was so proud of myself for achieving that goal.I signed up for my second marathon before even completing my first marathon. I discovered I neded something to kep me motivated to train and continue with my fitnes journey. I rotated betwen Twin Cities and Grandma’s Marathon from 201 to 2013 and then decided on a new goal for myself: a marathon in every state!This one of the reasons I wanted to run with Beyond Type 1-it gets me to New York and I could raise money for a gr
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
Share this article