What is Diabetes 1.5

Dr. Eric Berg 12/09/2023

Imagine this. You're stuck in a traffic jam on the highway of health, with type 1 diabetes honking horns to your left and type 2 causing commotion to your right.

But what if there was an off-ramp leading you straight into another condition altogether? Welcome to the world of Diabetes 1.5.

You may be wondering - "Diabetes...what?" That's because it's not as widely talked about as its more well-known siblings but holds characteristics from both worlds, hence the nickname 'double diabetes'.

It's like a plot twist in a medical mystery, where symptoms are masked under common adult ailments or childhood mischief, making diagnosis tricky. This confusion is something we'll dive deep into later.

Got your interest? Keep going, and you might stumble upon some unexpected insights. These could help you connect the dots and even carve out new paths.

Understanding Diabetes 1.5

You might have heard of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but there's a less-known variant called Diabetes 1.5, also known as LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults). It's often misdiagnosed because it combines characteristics of both other types.

The Intersection of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes 1.5 acts like an unwelcome guest that brings along traits from its cousins: the autoimmunity of type one and insulin resistance typical for type two. So, imagine your body is hosting a family reunion where nobody gets along.

This double whammy makes diagnosis tricky - many people with LADA are initially diagnosed with type-2 diabetes, only to find out later they need insulin therapy typically used for those with type-1.

It’s estimated that up to half of all adults diagnosed each year with non-obesity-related onset may have this form instead. It’s almost like opening a door expecting to see your friend Bob, but then you realize – it's not Bob; it's his long-lost twin brother Rob.

Signs and symptoms written on wood blocks

Identifying Symptoms of Diabetes 1.5

Diabetes 1.5, also known as "double diabetes," presents a unique blend of symptoms drawn from both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

The common symptoms seen in adults include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss or gain, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores.

Common Symptoms in Adults

If you're an adult suspecting you might have this condition, look for sudden changes in your health that other factors can't explain. For example:

Even after adequate rest, persistent tiredness could indicate your body's struggle to use glucose efficiently for energy.
An unusual increase or decrease in appetite accompanied by unexpected weight fluctuations is another red flag to watch out for.

Symptoms Seen in Children

In children with Diabetes 1.5, the signs may differ slightly but are equally telling when diagnosing the condition early on.

A child might start showing indications like increased hunger (polyphagia), abnormal weight loss despite eating more (polydipsia), and a constant need to pee (polyuria).

This trio of polyphagia, polydipsia, and polyuria forms what medical experts often refer to as the "diabetic triad," which points towards high blood sugar levels characteristic of all types of diabetes, including 1.5.

The Role of Vaccinations in the Onset of Diabetes 1.5

There's been a buzz around a potential link between vaccinations and the rise in Diabetes 1.5, especially among children. Let's take a closer look at this possible connection.

A study revealed that repeated vaccination could potentially contribute to an autoimmune response. But here’s where it gets tricky - our bodies are complex systems with many moving parts.

Vaccines help us by stimulating our immune system to fight off harmful pathogens. However, if the body mistakenly identifies its cells as threats – say insulin-producing beta cells, for instance - we land on rocky terrain known as autoimmunity, which happens with diabetes.

"So you're saying vaccines can cause Diabetes 1.5?"

Not so fast. The science isn't definitive yet. Despite some suppositions that immunizations may be connected to the start of diabetes, others believe it could simply be a fluke or due to other causes such as heredity or environment.

Diagnostic Tests for Diabetes 1.5

Suppose you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes but are now requiring insulin. In that case, it is possible that you may be experiencing Diabetes 1.5 and should seek medical advice to confirm this through autoantibody tests.

You might be dealing with a condition known as Diabetes 1.5.

The prominent way doctors distinguish between type 1, type 2, and diabetes 1.5 is through autoantibody tests. These blood tests look for specific antibodies that signal an autoimmune attack on the pancreas—something seen in both type 1 and diabetes 1.5.

Initial Diagnosis vs Long-term Observations

Your initial diagnosis isn't always your final answer regarding diabetes types.

A study found nearly 7% of adults diagnosed with Type-2 had autoantibodies, indicating they were suffering from Diabetes-one point five.

This tells us that, over time, things can change drastically. It means if your treatment plan doesn’t seem right or symptoms persist despite medication—it’s worth taking another peek at what’s happening inside those veins of yours.

Managing Diabetes 1.5 Through Nutrition and Supplementation

Fighting diabetes doesn't have to be a solo mission; your diet can be a powerful ally. A proper, nutrient-rich meal plan offers much-needed support in managing Diabetes 1.5.

The Power of Phytonutrients

Nature provides an array of weapons in the form of phytonutrients that pack a punch against diabetes complications. These health heroes are found in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts, and teas - anything plant-based.

Phytonutrients don't just help you hit the high notes on your taste buds but also assist with maintaining blood sugar levels. So, color your plate with all shades of nature's goodness.

Beneficial Supplements for Diabetes 1.5

You might need some extra backup besides food to manage this condition effectively.

Vitamin D is like sunshine in a bottle for our bodies. It also helps keep bones strong and may improve insulin resistance - pretty impressive stuff. Ensure you get enough by soaking up sunlight or taking supplements if necessary.

Zinc plays an incredible role in inflammation, which is crucial for people with diabetes. So make sure you've got this mineral in your corner.

Ever heard of benfotiamine? It's a fat-soluble form of vitamin B1 that can benefit nerve health, an area often affected by diabetes.

Finally, let's dive into nicotinamide. This supplement might just be what your insulin-producing cells need for protection.

Nutrition science illustration

Diet for Diabetes

A well-planned diet for diabetes is critical to managing the condition effectively.

While probiotics can offer potential benefits in supporting overall health for individuals with diabetes, it's crucial to emphasize dietary choices that help regulate blood sugar levels.

The best probiotic for diabetes may vary among individuals, but a diabetes-friendly diet typically revolves around balanced carbohydrate intake, portion control, and choosing foods with a low glycemic index.

Incorporating fiber-rich vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar levels.

While probiotics can complement a diabetes diet by promoting gut health, it's essential to prioritize a well-rounded and diabetes-conscious dietary plan, working in consultation with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance and support.

Conclusion

So, you've journeyed through the maze of Understanding Diabetes 1.5. It's not an easy path, but knowledge is your compass.

We started at the intersection of type 1 and type 2 diabetes - a complicated crossroads. Then, we moved on to recognizing symptoms in adults and children alike.

The potential role vaccinations might play caught our attention, raising more questions than answers. And how could we forget about those critical diagnostic tests?

The last stop was nutrition and supplementation - powerful allies to manage this condition better.

Remember: it's not just about surviving; it's thriving despite what life throws at us!