Why may insulin requirements decrease during the first trimester in a person with type 1 diabetes?

Why may insulin requirements decrease during the first trimester in a person with type 1 diabetes?

• A. Morning sickness may reduce food intake.
• B. Hormone changes increase insulin resistance.
• C. Increased physical activity lowers insulin requirements.
• D. Improved dietary adherence lowers insulin requirements.

Answer: (D)

In the first trimester, insulin needs can decrease when dietary intake becomes more predictable and aligns closely with insulin dosing. If a person adheres to a structured plan and accurately counts carbohydrates, the amount of insulin required to cover meals drops because insulin can be matched more precisely to the actual carb load. This means less insulin is needed overall to manage glucose levels, especially as appetite and intake can fluctuate less with better adherence. While pregnancy hormones later tend to raise insulin resistance and insulin needs, the early drop in requirements is often tied to improved consistency and accuracy in eating patterns.

In the first trimester, insulin needs can decrease when dietary intake becomes more predictable and aligns closely with insulin dosing. If a person adheres to a structured plan and accurately counts carbohydrates, the amount of insulin required to cover meals drops because insulin can be matched more precisely to the actual carb load. This means less insulin is needed overall to manage glucose levels, especially as appetite and intake can fluctuate less with better adherence. While pregnancy hormones later tend to raise insulin resistance and insulin needs, the early drop in requirements is often tied to improved consistency and accuracy in eating patterns.