Understanding Type 1 Diabetes: Chrissy Teigen recently opened up about her 6yo son’s diagnosis

“You noticed his type-1 diabetes monitor and extended so much love and encouragement in every way possible.”

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend recently opened up about their son Miles being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

The couple shared the news after fans noticed 6yo Miles was wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) in a family photo from the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Chrissy took to Instagram to share the diagnosis came after Miles was hospitalised with an intestinal infection earlier this year.

“Miles had his arm up, and soooo many of you reached out to say the most beautiful and incredible words I have ever witnessed on this platform,” wrote the 38yo television personality and mum-of-four.

“You noticed his type-1 diabetes monitor and extended so much love and encouragement in every way possible.”

She continued: “I’ve learned since then that this is how so many young children end up being diagnosed with type-1 – going to the hospital for something completely different. After more testing, we learned he is in the ‘honeymoon period’ of a lifetime of T1.

“Last night we gave him his first shot of insulin and here we go! A different, new world for us and we are certainly learning so much on the fly.”

What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 (T1) diabetes, formerly known as insulin-dependent or juvenile diabetes, is a chronic condition with no current cure. Though it’s commonly diagnosed in children, teens and young adults, it can develop at any age.

More than 130,000 Australians live with T1 diabetes. In T1 diabetes, the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels.

Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with lifestyle factors and can sometimes be managed with diet and exercise, T1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder.

In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, people with Type 1 diabetes need to manage their blood sugar levels with insulin for life.

Recognisng the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes in children

Spotting the signs of Type 1 diabetes early can make a big difference in managing the condition. Here are some key symptoms of Type 1 diabetes to watch out for in children:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination: When blood sugar levels are high, the body tries to flush out the excess sugar through urine, leading to frequent trips to the bathroom and feeling constantly thirsty.
• Extreme fatigue: Without enough insulin, cells can’t get the glucose they need for energy, causing fatigue and weakness.
• Unexplained weight loss: Even though your child may be eating normally, their body is breaking down muscle and fat for energy, resulting in weight loss.
• Blurred vision: High blood sugar can pull fluid from tissues, including the lenses of the eyes, causing blurry vision.
• Slow-healing sores or frequent infections: High blood sugar levels can affect the body’s ability to heal wounds and fight infections.

Managing Type 1 diabetes

In addition to taking insulin, people with Type 1 diabetes must measure their blood glucose levels multiple times a day, by either finger pricks or wearing a continuous glucose monitor, like Chrissy Teigan’s son, Miles.

• Insulin therapy: Since the body can’t produce insulin, people with T1 diabetes need to take insulin through injections or an insulin pump. This helps to keep blood sugar levels in check.
• Blood sugar monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential. This can be done with a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device, like the one Chrissy Teigen’s son, Miles is wearing.
• Healthy eating: Eating a balanced diet with a focus on carbohydrates and their effects on blood sugar is crucial. Carbohydrate counting helps in determining the right dose of insulin.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps to manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health. It’s important to coordinate exercise with insulin and food intake.
• Education and support: Understanding the condition and having a support system is vital. Diabetes education programs and support groups can offer guidance and encouragement.

Managing Type 1 diabetes may seem challenging at first, but with the right tools, knowledge, and support, it becomes a part of everyday life.