Common Myths About Type 1 Diabetes: Debunked
Share
When your child is diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), you quickly realise there’s a lot of misinformation out there, from outdated ideas to well-meaning but inaccurate comments. These myths can make families feel judged, misunderstood, or even blamed.
This blog tries to clear up some of the most common myths surrounding Type 1 Diabetes in children, helping parents feel more confident and reassuring them with calm, clear facts.
Myth: “They got diabetes from eating too much sugar”
Fact:
Type 1 Diabetes is not caused by sugar or diet. It’s an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact cause isn’t known, but it’s linked to genetics and environmental triggers, not food choices. Children with T1D didn’t do anything to cause it, and neither did their parents.
Myth: “They’ll grow out of it”
Fact:
There is no cure for Type 1 Diabetes, and children will NOT grow out of it. It is a lifelong condition that requires daily insulin therapy and glucose monitoring. However, many children grow into confident young people who manage their diabetes well and live full, active lives. Tools like CGMs and Glowcose help make that journey easier.
Myth: “You can control it with diet and exercise”
Fact:
While healthy eating and physical activity are important, they do not replace the need for insulin in Type 1 Diabetes. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, which may be managed with lifestyle changes, T1D always requires insulin. That’s why understanding the difference between the two types is so important (explored in detail in our Type 1 vs. Type 2 blog).
Myth: “They can’t eat sweets anymore”
Fact:
Children with Type 1 Diabetes can enjoy treats, just like other children. The key is carbohydrate counting and balancing insulin with food. With the right dose of insulin, a child can eat cake at a party or enjoy an ice cream on a hot day. No food is “off-limits”, it just needs to be part of a well-managed plan.
Myth: “Type 1 Diabetes is the ‘bad’ kind”
Fact:
There is no “bad” or “mild” diabetes. Both Type 1 and Type 2 are serious conditions that require attention and care. T1D needs immediate, lifelong insulin treatment, but with the right support, children can thrive. Spreading understanding, not fear, is key to changing public perceptions.
Myth: “Insulin is a cure”
Fact:
Insulin is a lifesaving treatment, not a cure. It allows children with T1D to manage their blood sugar levels and live well, but it doesn’t fix the underlying autoimmune condition. Research continues into finding a cure, but for now, insulin remains essential.
Myth: “They must have done something wrong”
Fact:
This is one of the most harmful myths. Nothing a child or parent did caused T1D. It is NOT the result of bad parenting, poor eating habits, or a lack of exercise. It’s simply something that happens, and how the family moves forward with education, support and encouragement matters most.
How to Respond to Misconceptions
It’s not always easy to correct people, especially when you’re tired or overwhelmed. But here are some gentle phrases you can use:
- “It’s actually an autoimmune condition, not caused by food.”
- “They’ll need insulin for life, but they can still do anything other kids can.”
- “There’s no cure, but we’ve got great tools to manage it.”
- “I’m happy to share more if you’re curious — we’re still learning too!”
How Glowcose Helps Families Focus on What Matters
Living with T1D isn’t about being perfect, it’s about feeling safe, supported, and connected. At Lewcose, we have the fabulous Glowcose light to make that journey a little easier.
Glowcose turns CGM data into calm, colour-based alerts, reducing alarm fatigue and making blood sugar monitoring feel less clinical, especially during sleep or downtime.
Explore Glowcose and see how it fits naturally into family life with Type 1 Diabetes.
FAQs: Type 1 Diabetes Myths
Is Type 1 Diabetes more serious than Type 2?
Both types are serious in their own ways. T1D requires immediate and lifelong insulin therapy, while T2D may be managed with diet, exercise, and medication. The danger lies in underestimating either condition. What matters most is early diagnosis, good management, and support.
Can stress or trauma cause Type 1 Diabetes?
No, there’s no evidence that stress alone causes T1D. It’s believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, not emotional experiences. It’s natural to search for reasons, but important to remember no one is to blame.
Is insulin addictive or harmful over time?
Absolutely not. Insulin is a natural hormone that everyone needs to live. In T1D, the body can’t make it, so it must be replaced. Insulin doesn’t damage the body — it protects it.
Can my child do sport or go on school trips?
Yes. With a care plan, children with T1D can do anything other kids do — school trips, sports, parties, and travel. Planning and confidence are key. CGMs and tools like Glowcose can help monitor levels discreetly.
Does Type 1 Diabetes shorten life expectancy?
When well-managed, children with T1D can live full and healthy lives. Advances in treatment, technology, and early diagnosis have greatly improved outcomes.
Can Type 1 Diabetes go into remission?
No. Unlike Type 2, T1D does not go into remission. Some children experience a brief “honeymoon phase” shortly after diagnosis, but insulin is always required long-term.
Final Thoughts
Type 1 Diabetes is often misunderstood, but the more we talk about it, the more we can break down myths and build understanding.
At Lewcose, we believe families should feel on top, not overwhelmed. Whether it’s explaining T1D to others, building daily routines, or managing night-time glucose, we’re here with tools like Glowcose that offer simple, practical help.
Explore Glowcose today and discover a calmer way to live with Type 1 Diabetes.
Paul @ Lewcose