When your doctor tells you that you have Type 1 Diabetes, you may feel a little scared and anxious. That's normal. But did you know that after being diagnosed with this disease, some people experience a wonderful period when their symptoms subside and their blood sugar levels become much easier to control. It's like the honeymoon phase for a newlywed couple. Our doctors call this the 'Honeymoon Phase'. But like a real honeymoon, this 'Honeymoon Phase' of diabetes doesn't always last. But during this period, you will feel a lot of relief. Let's talk about this in more detail.
How does the 'limitation period' begin?
Simply put, type 1 diabetes is a condition in which our body's defense system, the immune system, mistakenly attacks our own body. In this case, that system attacks the 'beta cells' in our pancreas. These beta cells are what make the hormone insulin, which is essential for our body. Insulin helps the body use the sugar in the food we eat as energy.
So, when the immune system destroys these beta cells, the amount of insulin produced in the body decreases. Then the blood sugar level rises. That's when you have to take insulin externally, either as an injection or through a pump, to control your blood sugar.
However, for many people with type 1 diabetes, after the disease is diagnosed and treatment begins, some of the remaining beta cells in the pancreas come back to life. Those cells immediately start producing insulin at their best. The amount of insulin produced is enough to control blood sugar for a while. That's what we call the 'Honeymoon Phase' . During this time, you can even reduce the amount of insulin you need to take.
What is the real reason for this?
Think of the beta cells in your pancreas as a small factory. The immune system attacks them, leaving most of them unable to function. Typically, symptoms begin to appear when only 30% of these workers are left.
When you are diagnosed with diabetes and start taking insulin from outside sources, the pancreas gets a little "rest." This means that the pressure on the remaining beta cells is reduced. Because of this rest, those remaining beta cells recover and temporarily increase their ability to produce insulin. About 60% of people with type 1 diabetes experience this "rest period."
What happens during the 'curfew'?
During this time, your blood sugar levels will be much more stable. You will experience fewer frequent spikes and drops in blood sugar. This can happen in two main ways.
| Condition | Simple Meaning |
|---|---|
| Partial Remission | This is a condition that many people experience. They still need some insulin to control their blood sugar, but much less than the usual dose. |
| Total Remission | This is a very rare condition. Since the pancreas produces enough insulin for the body, it is possible to temporarily stop taking insulin altogether. |
How long does this period last?
The 'remission period' usually begins about 3 months after you start treatment for diabetes. How long it lasts varies from person to person. For some, it may be just a month , for others a year or two , and very rarely, it can be as long as 10-13 years .
Over time, as the immune system continues to attack, the remaining beta cells are gradually destroyed. Then the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas decreases again. When it becomes difficult to control your blood sugar, your doctor will advise you to increase the dose of insulin again.
What should you do during the 'lockdown'?
This is the most important thing.
This 'remission period' does not mean that your diabetes is completely cured, nor does it mean that you never had diabetes.
Even if your blood sugar levels are normal, your body needs insulin. And your pancreas may not be able to fully meet that need. Because it is difficult to predict exactly how much insulin your pancreas will produce during this time, your blood sugar levels can fluctuate unpredictably.
Therefore, it is important to check your blood sugar levels several times a day . Your doctor will tell you how often to check. He or she will also tell you how to adjust your insulin dose based on your blood sugar levels, your diet, and your exercise. Never stop taking insulin without first talking to your doctor.
Will this period affect future health?
Yes, absolutely. The 'intermittent fasting' period is a great way to control blood sugar levels in the short term. It can also reduce the risk of complications of diabetes in the future. The main complications include:
- Diabetic retinopathy - damage to the blood vessels in the eye.
- Diabetic nephropathy - damage to the kidneys.
- Diabetic neuropathy - damage to the nerves.
Can the 'limitation period' be extended?
There is research on several things that can help extend this time a little longer.
Regular exercise can help. One study found that people who exercised after being diagnosed with the disease had a 'survival period' that was five times longer than those who didn't.
Also, although there is a theory that vitamin D can reduce damage to the pancreas, this has not yet been fully proven.
The greatest hope for doctors and scientists is to one day find a treatment that can stop the immune system from attacking the pancreas. Clinical trials are already underway.
Take-Home Message
- The 'Honeymoon Phase' is a temporary period after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, when blood sugar control is easier. This is not a cure for the disease.
- During this time, your insulin needs may be reduced, but it is important to check your blood sugar levels regularly .
- Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding your insulin dose, diet, and exercise.
- This 'restriction period' can reduce the risk of future diabetes complications, which is beneficial for your long-term health.
- This 'remission period' will eventually end. It's part of the natural course of this disease. So don't be discouraged, and work with your doctor to reevaluate your treatment plan.
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