The importance of nutrition therapy in treating diabetes mellitus has been emphasized since it was first identified, being the only effective intervention then. In Type 1 diabetes, its importance is even more pronounced due to its association with the use of exogenous insulin. Appropriate caloric ingestion in order to attain normal body weight maintains anabolism, warranting growth and development and decreases insulin resistance. The correct use of micronutrients and macronutrients is vitally important. The knowledge of carbohydrate metabolism and its […]

We can now predict the development of Type 1A (Immune Mediated) diabetes primarily through the determination of four biochemically characterized islet autoantibodies [insulin, GAD65, IA-2 (ICA512) and (Znt8)]. Prediction is possible because beta-cell destruction is chronically progressive and very slow in most, but not all individuals. We can also prevent type 1A diabetes in animal models and a major goal is the prevention of type 1A diabetes in man with multiple clinical trials underway.

Although physical activity has been associated with cardiovascular mortality reduction in type-1 diabetes (DM1) patients, many points in the topic ‘exercise’ deserve a closer look. For example: contradictory data have been reported regarding the benefits of physical activity on metabolic control in these patients. Still contradictory is the type of exercise that brings more benefit in this group. Another issue is the best way of reducing insulin doses for exercise. This article intent to discuss these topics. The effect of […]

As a result of the advances in glucose monitoring and insulin administration, there has been a dramatic improvement in the outcomes of pregnancy in diabetic women over the past decades. Pregnancy in type 1 diabetic women is associated with an increase in risk both to the fetus and to the mother. The normalization of blood glucose in order to prevent congenital anomalies and spontaneous abortions is considered a priority. As the pregnancy progress, the mother is at an increased risk […]

The aim of the present study is a literature revision of the contribution of continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS®) in the interpretation of HbA1c levels in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). We performed a revision of the efficacy, benefits, interpretation of methods and experience with this system. The CGMS® could be useful in T1DM patients that present great glycemic variability or severe hypoglycemia (mainly nocturnal) and postprandial hyperglycemia. The identification of altered patterns or the glycemic variability allows therapeutic adjustment and […]

The association between type 1 diabetes and coronary heart disease has become very clear since the late 1970. It has been demonstrated that there is an important increased risk in morbidity and mortality caused by coronary artery disease in young adults with type 1 diabetes compared with the non diabetic population. The underlying pathogeneses is still poorly understood. While the role of glycemic control in the development of microvascular disease complication is well established its role in CVD in patients […]

With the intensive glycemic control in the therapy of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients, cardiovascular disease has been the main cause of mortality. Identification of risk factors, such as dyslipidemia is considered of great importance in terms of avoiding chronic micro and macro vascular complications. The statements for prevention of coronary artery disease in diabetes are generally are related do type 2 diabetes mellitus and little attention is paid to T1DM. Defining therapeutical targets and indications for treatment are […]

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by progressive destruction of the pancreatic b cells, what leads to insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia. However, a significant secretory function may persist for long periods in a few patients, what is clinically evident through the detection of serum C peptide. This phenomenon might reduce the risk of chronic complications, severe hypoglycemias and allow easier metabolic control. It is possible that these advantages are caused, at least partially, by C peptide itself, acting […]

Glycemic control and diabetes duration are believed to be the most important risk factors for the development of diabetic microangiopathy; however, the rate of progression of nephropathy, retinopathy and polyneuropathy varies considerably among patients. Besides the presence of risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia and smoking, there is evidence suggesting that genetic predisposition plays a role in the susceptibility to microvascular complications. Based on underlying pathogenesis, polymorphisms of several candidate genes belonging to multiple pathways have been investigated, like the […]

Type 1 diabetes incidence has been increasing worldwide, however the vast majority of patients do not have a good glycaemic control. This review focuses on diabetes educational programs designed for children, young adults and their families, as well as regular pump users educational tips, collected from papers published between 2000 and 2007. A comprehensive review of the literature has identified 40 articles describing the methods and the evaluation of diabetes self-management education interventions. Three research questions are posed. First: what […]

Both Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) and Multiple Daily Injections (MDI) are effective ways of implementing intensive management of DM1 to attain near normal glycemic levels and a more flexible lifestyle. CSII is as safe as MDI and has some advantages over it mostly in diabetic patients with frequent hypoglycemias with important dawn phenomenum, gastroparesia, during pregnancy, in children and in patients with an erratic way of living. CSII allows a better chance to reach better glycemic control with less […]

Type 1 diabetic patients frequently present hypoglycemic episodes during their insulinotherapy, which, besides the discomfort and constrains does not allow the ideal glycemic control. Further, hypoglycemic events lead to the deficiency of the counter-regulation mechanisms in the subsequent episode, with a decrease in the release of epinephrine and the symptoms of warming, with great risk of severe hypoglycemia. The occurrence of hypoglycemia during some risky activities, specially driving, could result in accidents with the patient and /or third parts including […]