Glucose plays a very important role in the functioning of the body. It is the most important carbohydrate, a simple monosaccharide, which helps provide energy to the body. It works with insulin to help build glucose transporters to the body's cells. This glucose in the cells produces energy required for the functioning of the body. When this process is disturbed and the production of insulin is affected, the condition is called diabetes.

The pancreas produces insulin in the body, but when the body is unable to utilize the insulin produced, then this is known as type 2 diabetes. The condition when the pancreas stops producing insulin altogether, is called type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in children and young adults; therefore it is also called juvenile diabetes. Fortunately this type of diabetes can be controlled and managed more comfortably than type 2 diabetes. However, this does not change the fact that this is a serious condition and if you have the disease, you have to be very careful. Diabetes is not a condition that you can neglect; medical attention is required as soon as it is diagnosed. If left untreated, it will lead to more serious health problems. You have to be careful about what you eat and what you do.

If your family has a history of diabetes, then you have to take extra care as you have a greater chance of getting it than someone who does not have a family history of the disease. Look out for the signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes at an early age. It is best to get the right tests done to confirm whether or not you have it. It is advisable to get as much information as you can get on the condition. You can find a lot of information in books, from your physician and, of course, on the Internet.

Some of the early signs of type 1 diabetes that you need to look out for are:

• Increased frequency of urination

• An insatiable thirst

• Severe hunger

• Unexplained weight loss

• Weakness and malaise

• Blurry vision

• Irritability

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your physician immediately.

Type 1 diabetes can lead to more complications if it is left untreated. Examples are heart problems, strokes, damage to the kidneys and blurred vision, possibly leading to blindness.

As the pancreas stops the production of insulin in type 1 diabetes, the treatment for this disease would include the introduction of insulin to the body. There are about 20 types of products available which could provide the much needed insulin. Which product should be taken depends on the patient and the physician providing the health care.

There are various insulin products which are made to suit the different needs and lifestyles of the patients. The physician, after examining the patient, will prescribe the insulin product that is the most suitable. Factors affecting this decision are the blood sugar level, how soon the insulin takes effect, the peak times that insulin is required and also how long the insulin is effective in the diabetic's body.