Living with juvenile diabetes mellitus Living with juvenile diabetes mellitus Juvenile onset diabetes, more commonly known as Type I diabetes, is the most serious of the diabetic conditions and requires careful monitoring to be effectively controlled. This condition is caused by the inability of the body to produce enough insulin to adequately process carbohydrates, fat and protein. Daily injections of insulin are required to control this ailment. Untreated, this condition can result in stroke, heart disease, male impotence, kidney failure, blindness and various vascular conditions.
Some severe cases result in gangrene to legs and feet.
Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes can include frequent urination, extreme thirst, genital itching, lowered immunity to infection, urinary tract and yeast infections, increased appetite, weight loss and, in advanced cases, vision impairment. Diet is important in the treatment of this disease and the inclusion of food high in vitamins C and E along with foods with high fiber content can go a long way in helping to maintain proper health for a sufferer. If overweight, a weight loss may reduce the amount of insulin needed. Discuss diet and any reservations about eating certain foods with a physician or dietician. Always keep a snack on hand.