Renee Gosselin, MS MBA RD

Nutrition Instructor 

  

In healthcare, we mostly hear about Type 1 Diabetes (insulin dependent), Type 2 Diabetes (insulin resistant) and Gestational Diabetes (pregnancy related). However, there is another type that is normally not addressed or not even acknowledged, Type 1.5 (pronounced Type 1 and a half) or Latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA). Latent autoimmune diabetes of adults is often mistaken for Type 2 Diabetes. This normally progresses in adults and can take months to years to develop.  With LADA, there are autoantibodies present meaning there is an autoimmune response occurring and normally insulin dependence occurs within 6 months.  There is no prevention of LADA; however, having a healthy lifestyle with exercise and following a carbohydrate exchange list meal plan or diet is optimal.Individuals with LADA can experience insulin resistance as well. 

 

Why is this important for individuals interested in health and wellness to be aware of? If an individual is not responding well to medications and possibly diet changes, this could be the cause. It is not very common but it is something to be aware of. Individuals may have a diagnosis with Type 2 Diabetes due to this occurring in adulthood. This actually did occur in a case of one of my coworkers and she was misdiagnosed. It took 3 years of poor blood glucose control and finally a professional found the antiantibodies within in her bloodwork results. 

 

Nutritionist, healthcare professionals, and friends/family members of an individual should pay special attention to this diagnosis due to carbohydrate counting and specific diabetic teaching that occur. Diagnosis of LADA could provide a long-term wellness plan for the individual to receive the best care possible.

Lastly, here is a good link for a reference: http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2010/may/the-other-diabetes-lada-or-type-1-5.html