There is no one-size-fits-all approach to insulin management during the honeymoon phase.
“Like any phase of type 1, you’ll have to work closely with your healthcare team to gradually start or increase insulin doses based on your glucose data,” says Szoke.
Some people during the honeymoon phase, more likely adults, may be able to delay the need for daily insulin therapy for some time. Some people may only need a smaller amount of long-acting basal insulin to keep blood glucose levels in range. Others may need intensive insulin therapy — a combination of long-acting basal insulin and short-acting rapid insulin between meals.
“Some people produce enough insulin during the honeymoon phase to keep their blood sugar levels in range without any additional insulin, but most people will likely need some bolus or basal insulin,” says Szoke.
Regardless of the strength or duration of the honeymoon period, it always comes to an end.
“It is inevitable: You will need more insulin,” says Szoke. “I’ve seen many newly diagnosed adults go on ketogenic diets, believing they’ve cured their type 1 [diabetes] and eliminated the need for daily insulin,” says Szoke. “In reality, all they’ve done is combine the honeymoon phase with a severely restricted diet that calls for very little insulin. In time, their blood sugar levels will rise as that honeymoon phase dwindles.”
Work closely with your healthcare team to monitor your blood glucose levels and adjust your insulin regimen based on your body’s gradual loss of insulin production.
