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What You Need to Know About Type 1.5 Diabetes
Paula Gallagher on
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), often referred to as Type 1.5 diabetes, is a form of diabetes that shares characteristics with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which typically presents in childhood or adolescence, LADA emerges later in life. However, unlike Type 2 diabetes, LADA involves an autoimmune process that leads to the gradual destruction of insulin-producing beta cells.
Causes of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)
The exact cause of LADA is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. In LADA, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a gradual loss of insulin production. This autoimmune attack is similar to what occurs in Type 1 diabetes, but in LADA, it progresses more slowly.
Some factors that may increase the risk of developing LADA include:
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Family History: A family history of autoimmune diseases, including Type 1 diabetes, may increase the risk.
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Environmental Triggers: Viral infections, toxins, or other environmental factors may trigger the autoimmune response.
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Age: LADA typically develops in adults over the age of 30, though it can occur at any age.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of LADA can be resemble those of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. These may include:
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Increased Thirst and Urination: High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to excrete more water, leading to increased thirst and frequent urination.
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Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite eating normally, individuals may lose weight due to the body's inability to use glucose for energy.
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Fatigue: A lack of insulin results in a lack of energy, causing fatigue.
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Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision.
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Slow Healing of Wounds: High blood sugar can impair circulation and the immune system, slowing the healing process.
Diagnosis of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)
Diagnosing LADA can be challenging because its symptoms often resemble those of Type 2 diabetes, and it progresses more slowly than Type 1 diabetes. However, certain tests can help distinguish LADA from other forms of diabetes:
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Blood Glucose Tests: High blood glucose levels can indicate diabetes, but further testing is needed to determine the type.
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C-Peptide Test: This test measures the level of C-peptide, a byproduct of insulin production. Low levels of C-peptide may indicate reduced insulin production, which is common in LADA.
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Autoantibody Tests: The presence of specific autoantibodies, such as GAD antibodies, is a key indicator of LADA. These autoantibodies attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
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HbA1c Test: This test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. Elevated HbA1c levels indicate poor blood sugar control.
Conventional Treatment Approaches
The treatment of LADA involves managing blood sugar levels and slowing the progression of beta cell destruction. Conventional treatment often includes:
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Insulin Therapy: Since LADA is characterized by a gradual loss of insulin production, insulin therapy is often necessary. Early initiation of insulin therapy may help preserve remaining beta cell function.
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Oral Medications: Initially, some people with LADA may respond to oral medications typically used in Type 2 diabetes, such as metformin. However, as the disease progresses, these medications often become less effective.
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Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to adjust treatment and prevent complications.
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Functional Medicine Approaches
Functional medicine takes a holistic approach to managing LADA, focusing on the root causes and individualized treatment. Functional medicine approaches may include:
Nutritional Interventions: A diet low in refined carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and proteins may help manage blood sugar levels. Anti-inflammatory foods and those rich in antioxidants can also support overall health.
Lifestyle Modifications: Regular physical activity, stress management, and sufficient sleep are crucial in managing LADA. These lifestyle factors can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
Nutritional Supplements: Certain supplements, such as chromium, vitamin D, magnesium and ashwagandha, may support insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
- Chromium: Chromium is a trace mineral that plays a role in insulin action and glucose metabolism. Studies investigating chromium supplementation have shown benefits in terms of improved glycemic control, reduced insulin resistance, and lower fasting blood sugar levels.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Magnesium deficiency has been shown to increase the risk of diabetes, and supplementation can protect against inflammation, improve markers of blood glucose control and insulin sensitivity, and lower blood pressure.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with autoimmune diseases, including Type 1 diabetes, and supplementation has been proven helpful in treating autoimmunity. This systematic review calculated a diabetes risk reduction of 15% with vitamin D supplementation.
Addressing Underlying Inflammation: Functional medicine practitioners often focus on reducing chronic inflammation, which can contribute to autoimmune processes. This may involve identifying and eliminating potential triggers, such as food sensitivities, infections, or toxins. If you would like to discuss these approaches further with a Naturopath or Nutritionist, contact Village Green Apothecary.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is a unique form of diabetes that requires a comprehensive approach to management. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic tests for LADA is crucial for proper treatment. While conventional medicine focuses on managing blood sugar levels and preventing complications, functional medicine aims to address the underlying causes and support overall health. Through a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and holistic interventions, individuals with LADA can achieve better blood sugar control and improve their quality of life.
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