Most children with diabetes have Type 1, where their body does not produce any – or very little – insulin. Because of this lack of insulin, glucose is unable to enter their cells to be converted into energy, making them feel tired and unwell. As glucose can’t provide energy, the body tries to get it from elsewhere – and so it starts to break down stores of fat and protein instead. This can cause weight loss. And because the glucose is unused by the body, it ends up passing into the urine. This can cause frequent urination and dehydration, which, in turn, can cause extreme thirst.

Symptoms

The main signs of untreated diabetes are:

• extreme tiredness
• weight loss
• frequent urination
• increased thirst.