Motherhood and Type 1 Diabetes

Being a mom is hard enough, but add in the challenge of living with type 1 diabetes, and things can sometimes feel overwhelming. As a mom who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 13 years, I know firsthand the struggles and triumphs of balancing motherhood and chronic illness.

The challenge of managing blood sugar levels while also juggling the demands of motherhood can definitely feel overwhelming at times. There are so many factors that can affect blood sugar levels, from stress and lack of sleep (gosh those newborn days can be tough) to changes in diet (who doesn't finish eating your kids snack tray?) and physical activity (those toddler years are no joke). When you're a mom, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to stay on top of your diabetes management.

But as challenging as it can be, being a mom with type 1 diabetes has its rewards too. For one, it can make you more mindful of your health and help you prioritize self-care. It can also make you a role model for your children, teaching them the importance of taking care of their bodies and managing their own health.

Here are a few tips for other moms living with type 1 diabetes:

1. Prioritize self-care: As a mom, it's easy to put everyone else's needs before your own. But when you're living with type 1 diabetes, it's essential to prioritize self-care. This means making time for exercise, giving your body good food and sources of energy, and monitoring your blood sugar levels (thank you, Dexcom and Tandem for making this so much simpler).

2. Lean on your support system: Being a mom with type 1 diabetes can feel isolating at times. That's why it's important to build a support system of friends, family, and healthcare providers who can offer you guidance and encouragement. Social media can be a great source to find support locally and around the world.

3. Don't be too hard on yourself: Managing type 1 diabetes can be challenging, and there will be days when you don't feel like you're doing your best. Remember that you're doing the best you can, and that's all anyone can ask of you.

4. Set realistic goals: When you're a mom with type 1 diabetes, it's important to set realistic goals for yourself. Not every day will be a great day for your blood sugar so be gentle with yourself when those days happen. 

5. Celebrate your successes: Living with type 1 diabetes can be tough, but there are also many small victories along the way. Celebrate these successes, no matter how small they may seem. Bonus, you'll be all the kids favorite mom with your amazing snack supply that you always have on hand.

Even though being a mom with type 1 diabetes is not easy it's also not impossible. With the right tools and support, you can thrive as a mom. Remember to prioritize self-care, lean on your support system, and celebrate your successes along the way. We've got this, moms! 

Be well,

Emily