Fact 1: People with diabetes can eat what everyone else can eat.

Healthy eating is important for everyone – no matter if you have diabetes or not. People with diabetes do not need ‘special foods’ and there is no need for a zero-sugar diet.

Just like everyone else, Luke enjoys birthday cake and the occasional treat – and there is no reason not to have these just because he lives with type 1 diabetes. He may need to check his blood glucose levels and take some insulin to manage it; but that’s ok, he’s used to that. Sometimes he even needs a little extra sugar, when his blood glucose levels have dropped too low and he experiences what’s known as a ‘hypo’.

Living with diabetes can be stressful, challenging and tiring. Luke knows people often mean well, but when they tell him what they think he ‘should’ or ‘shouldn’t’ be eating, it just adds to his frustrations. If you’re unsure what foods or drinks to offer, just ask!