Eleni Sakoufakis

Type One Diabetes Management

Started June 29, 2022

Abstract or project description

This research paper discusses certain environmental factors-heat, sleep, stress, and alcohol- that may target and affect those with Type One Diabetes. It was found that biochemically, ethanol is most strongly seen to accompany hypoglycemia from induced GI and hepatic absorption. In addition, due to one's poor cognitive state, they aren't able to properly handle their diabetic responsibilities, leading to hazardous results; Inconsistent sleep leads to poor adherence to treatment and glycemic management. When the recommended hours of sleep are not met, poor glycemic control and unregulated blood glucose come to follow-with a higher HbA1c. In addition hypoglycemia during the night is noticed. The neurological impacts that also come with poor sleep also seem to relay inefficient adherence to treatment; Those with T1D are more sensitive to heat due to damaged thermoregulatory control, sweat glands, and lower blood flow. In addition, heat increases the risk of hyperglycemia due to the possible spike in insulin; With increased levels of stress due to a release of cortisol and epinephrine-comes with heightened glucose concentrations and association with insulin resistance; and finally, instability in one´s mental health. Ways to address these effects and take control include limiting alcohol intake, staying hydrated-especially in the presence of heat, eating proper meals throughout the day, and getting sufficient amounts of sleep (Recommended 9-12 hours(ages 13-18); 7 hours(18+)), taking steps toward limiting stress, eating a 15g carbohydrate snack before bed, showing up regularly to doctor appointments, taking insulin prior to every meal.