Correct. In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin due to the autoimmune destruction of beta cells. But that’s not the only issue—another important hormone, glucagon from our alpha cells, can often be affected too.
Glucagon’s main job is to tell the liver to release stored sugar into the bloodstream, especially when we’re not eating—like overnight or between meals. This helps keep our blood sugar levels steady. In people with Type 1 diabetes, this glucagon response can become reduced or lost over time, making it harder for the body to raise blood sugar when needed. [ THINK: Can’t keep blood sugar up-lack of glucagon / can’t keep blood sugar down- lack of insulin]
That’s why it’s so important to stay alert during prolonged fasting (skipped meals) if you have Type 1 diabetes.