Myths
True or False - Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
FALSE. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. Type 2 diabetes is influenced by genetics and lifestyle, not just sugar intake.
Term for low blood sugar
What is hypoglycemia? Symptoms include things like shakiness, sweating, and confusion. Treat with fast-acting carbs such as fruit juice.
This singer and actor has lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood.
Who is Nick Jonas? He’s a strong advocate for diabetes awareness!
This macronutrient affects blood sugar the most
What are carbohydrates? Carbohydrates break down quickly once digested, therefore they are the main nutrient affecting blood glucose levels. All carbohydrate's eaten (meals AND snacks) need to be counted to appropriately dose insulin.
True or False: People with diabetes can’t eat sweets.
FALSE. People with diabetes can enjoy sweets in moderation but should get insulin coverage.
Term for high blood sugar.
What is hyperglycemia? Symptoms may include things like frequent urination, increased thirst, blurred vision, headache. Treatment for high blood sugar is insulin.
Nick Jonas co-founded this non-profit organization that provides education, support, and advocacy for people living with diabetes.
What is Beyond Type 1? https://beyondtype1.org/
Examples of “free food” for carb counting
What are: string cheese, pickles, sugar-free Jell-O? Free foods have little to no carbs and don’t usually need insulin. Please note this in not an all-inclusive list.
Myth or Fact: Type 1 diabetes can be cured with diet and exercise.
MYTH. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin for life. Diet and exercise can help with management but does not cure it.
This hormone is missing or not working properly in individuals living with diabetes.
What is insulin? Insulin helps move sugar from the blood into cells for energy.
This musician known for hits like "Rocket Man" was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes later in life and uses his platform to raise awareness.
Who is Elton John?
Carb counting is...
What is tracking carbs in foods being eaten to match insulin dose? It helps keep blood sugar in range and allows flexibility in food choices.
Myth or Fact: You can always feel when your blood sugar is high or low.
MYTH. Many people may not feel symptoms. That’s why checking blood sugar is so important!
Rule of 15 is used for...
What is treating a low blood sugar? Eat 15g of carbs, wait 15 minutes, then recheck blood sugar.
This Olympic swimmer won gold medals while managing type 1 diabetes.
Who is Gary Hall Jr.? He proved that athletes with diabetes can compete at the highest level.
Fasting acting carb sources
Myth or Fact: Once diagnosed with diabetes, there is nothing you can do to prevent complications.
MYTH. By managing blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy weight, and following medical advice, people with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of complications.
Bolus insulin is...
What is rapid-acting insulin dose taken to cover meal time carbohydrates or to correct a high blood sugar?
Individuals with Type 1 diabetes typically follow a basal-bolus insulin regimen requiring 2 types of insulin each day - a rapid acting insulin (Novolog, Humalog, etc.). and a long acting insulin (Lantus, Basaglar, etc.).
This NFL quarterback played professionally while managing type 1 diabetes.
Who is Jay Cutler? He used insulin therapy and CGM to stay on top of his game.
Term for ranking how carbs affect blood sugar
What is "Glycemic Index"? Low-GI (glycemic index) foods raise blood sugar more slowly than high-GI foods.
*Examples of low-GI foods include animal based proteins, many vegetables, herbs, spices, lemons and limes. *Examples of high-GI foods include grains, starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn, and some fruits.