Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Protocol

The first 30 days are critical. This is the unvarnished, clinical priority list for immediate stabilization, completely bypassing the "you can eat anything you want!" platitudes.

Priority 1: Avoid DKA

Diabetic Ketoacidosis is the primary acute threat. You must have the ability to test for ketones at home.

  • Blood vs Urine: Blood ketone meters (e.g., Freestyle Optium Neo, Keto-Mojo) are superior. Urine strips are delayed by hours and degrade when exposed to air.
  • Thresholds: Under 0.6 mmol/L is normal. 0.6 - 1.5 indicates need for extra water and insulin. Over 1.5 requires immediate medical consultation. Over 3.0 requires the ER.
  • Tool: See our DKA Risk Matrix.

Priority 2: The Baseline Ratios

You will leave the hospital with fixed doses, but these must transition to ratios.

  • Carb Ratio: How many grams of carbs 1 unit of insulin covers. Calculate it here.
  • Correction Factor (ISF): How much 1 unit drops your blood sugar. Calculate it here.
  • Basal Rate: The background insulin that holds you steady when fasting.

The "Honeymoon" Phase Warning

Shortly after diagnosis and initiation of exogenous insulin, the remaining beta cells in your pancreas rest and may resume producing endogenous insulin. This drops your exogenous insulin requirements drastically.

Common Mistake

Patients mistake the honeymoon phase for a "cure" or a result of a new fad diet. Do not stop taking basal insulin entirely. Even microscopic amounts of basal insulin during the honeymoon preserve remaining beta cell function longer. Monitor closely, as insulin needs will eventually rise again.

Next Steps

  1. Obtain a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). Review the CGM Comparison Data.
  2. Enroll in a structured education programme like DAFNE or BERTIE.
  3. Familiarize yourself with the Rule of 15 for treating severe lows.