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Diabetes Nerd

Parenting a T1D Teen Without Becoming the ‘Blood Sugar Police’

June 11 · 44 min · Season 1 · 31.8 MB
0:00-44:04

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Managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) during the teen years can feel like a constant balancing act. In this episode, Yale pediatric endocrinologist and person living with T1D, Dr. Laura Nally, shares practical strategies to help parents support their teens with more confidence and less conflict.

Learn why blood sugar responses to exercise aren't one-size-fits-all, how nutrition and physical activity work together, and what parents can do to help teens build independence while staying safe. Dr. Nally discusses her research on exercise and diabetes, including how identifying individual patterns can lead to smarter management decisions.

We also explore common challenges such as preventing lows during sports, using protein to support blood sugar stability, and avoiding the "blood sugar police" approach that can damage trust and communication. Plus, hear how diabetes technology can reduce mental burden while still encouraging teens to develop essential self-management skills.

Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or someone supporting a teen with type 1 diabetes, this episode offers practical insights to help young people thrive—both physically and emotionally.

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Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com.

DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen.

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