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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Does my weight affect my blood sugar levels?

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    Endocrinology Type 1 Diabetes
    I understand that weight loss can help manage type 2 diabetes. Is this as important for someone living with type 1 diabetes
    • 2 answers
    • Kate Marsh
    • Arlene Normand
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    Kate Marsh

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator, Dietitian

    Kate works with clients with type 1 and gestational diabetes, PCOS, and those following a plant-based (vegetarian or vegan) diet. As a diabetes educator, she … View Profile

    While weight isn't a contributing factor in the development of type 1 diabetes, like it is for type 2, gaining weight can still affect blood glucose levels if you have type 1 diabetes. Gaining weight makes it harder for your insulin to work (insulin resistance) so you may need more insulin to keep your blood glucose levels in the target range.

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    Arlene Normand

    Dietitian

    Arlene is a registered practising dietitian, with a private practice in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, and has built a strong business over the last … View Profile

    It is very important to be consistent as a Type 1 diabetic. If you are eating more you will have to increase your insulin levels which will result in weight gain. If you become an unhealthy weight it will impact on your health. Diabetic are more prone to heart disease, stroke, hypertension, high cholesterol etc. I recommend that you keep your weight under control. Diet and physical activity are critically important in the management of type 1 diabetes. To effectively manage and achieve stable blood sugar control, it is important to understand how to balance food intake, physical activity, and insulin.
    Making healthy food choices every day has both immediate and long-term effects. With education, practice, and assistance from a dietitian and/or a diabetes educator, it is possible to eat well and control diabetes and your weight.
    Many factors affect how well diabetes is controlled. Many of these factors are controlled by you, including how much and what is eaten, how frequently the blood sugar is monitored, physical activity levels, and accuracy and consistency of medication dosing. Even small changes can affect blood sugar control.
    Eating a consistent amount of food every day and taking medications as directed can greatly improve blood sugar control and decrease the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as coronary artery disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. In addition, these measures impact weight control. A dietitian can help to create a food plan that is tailored to your medical needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Try and maintain a healthy weight always by balancing you food intake, your insulin and your activity (exercise).

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