The Honeymoon Phase in Diabetes

People with type 2 diabetes tend to develop the disease as adults (although diagnoses in children and teens continues to increase), and lifestyle factors influence whether diabetes develops. Type 2 diabetics don't produce enough insulin or their bodies don't use it properly. On the other hand, people with Type 1 Diabetes don't produce insulin at all -- and thus require insulin injections in order to control their blood sugar. Some Type 1 diabetics experience a so-called "honeymoon phase". What is the honeymoon phase in diabetes, and how long does it last?

The honeymoon phase is a temporary period after diagnosis when someone with type 1 diabetes doesn't need to take insulin or only needs a small or reduced amount. Blood sugar levels actually improve to normal (or near normal) levels. During this phase, the pancreas starts producing insulin after an insulin injection, by stimulating the remaining beta cells to produce the hormone. However, the remaining beta cells are eventually destroyed too, and insulin injections are once again needed because the body stops producing insulin again. The honeymoon phase is temporary - it does not mean that diabetes is cured or in remission.

The length of this phase is different for each individual and can be measured in days, weeks, or months (usually not years, although it is possible). Not every diabetic will experience a honeymoon phase. The unpredictable length of time and fluctuations in blood sugar during this phase can make it difficult to tightly control blood sugar levels. Insulin doses during this phase must be adjusted as necessary to avoid both hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

Researchers are currently seeking a way to prolong the honeymoon phase.

The honeymoon phase in diabetes does not apply to type 2 diabetics.