by Christine Craig, MS, RD, CDCES
Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease share a fascinating connection rooted in their autoimmune nature and shared genetic background.
In T1D, autoantibodies attack the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas, leading to insulin deficiency. In celiac disease, ingesting gluten triggers an immune response that damages the epithelial villi of the small intestine. Recent studies suggest that approximately 6% of individuals with T1D also have celiac disease, far higher than the prevalence of celiac disease in the general population, which is around 1%.
Shared Genetic Background
T1D and celiac disease have a shared genetic background, with 95% of individuals with type 1 and 99% of individuals with celiac having the presence of HLA class II genes as DQ2 and DQ8.1 While the presence of these DQ and other alleles increases the risk of developing T1D by 30–50%, most individuals with these genetic predispositions will never progress to develop either condition, this highlights the need for deeper insights into the factors predict that disease onset and progression.
Nobel Prize Awarded
In October 2024, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for discovering microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.2 As we recall, messenger RNA is created by copying a gene sequence from DNA, carrying this genetic code to the ribosomes for protein synthesis- microRNAs up or down-regulate and “fine-tune” gene expression.2 MicroRNAs could be utilized to track what genes are expressed and in which cells. They could potentially be used as a tool for early detection and biomarkers of disease progression.
In T1D genetic risk combined with a triggering event leads to expression of autoantibodies. BreakthoughT1, previously JDRF,3 funded additional research on microRNA due to the potential to increase early prediction of T1D autoimmunity, provide additional biomarkers of Stage 1 and Stage 2 T1D progression, and for its potential to modulate the immune system by slowing down or ceasing autoimmune response. In celiac disease, tissue transglutaminase (TGA) and anti-endomysium autoantibody concentrations are used to screen individuals at risk of celiac disease, however these autoantibodies are often elevated when villous atrophy is already present. An article by Tan and colleagues4 reviewed 53 microRNAs as potential biomarkers of celiac disease, some were found more than a year before tissue transglutaminase (TGA) positivity, and some became normalized with initiation of a gluten-free diet.
microRNA enable earlier detection?
microRNA has the potential for early detection before the onset of intestinal damage. In both celiac disease and T1D, we currently use autoantibodies as predictors of disease development, but it is the biopsy of the villi4 or glucose levels that truly diagnose the stage of the disease. microRNAs may enable earlier detection of disease progression before significant damage occurs, revolutionizing current diagnostic and monitoring approaches.
AI to Develop Proteins to Treat Disease?
Another 2024 Nobel Prize awarded in Chemistry, also has implications for T1D and celiac research. David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper received their prize for using artificial intelligence (AI) to develop computational protein design and predict protein structure.2 Their research led to the development of a new way to create proteins that have the potential to treat disease, make vaccines, and, important to T1D, develop new glucose-responsive insulins. These glucose-responsive insulins are currently in clinical trials and can activate in response to glucose needs after injection.5 In addition, their research led to the development of TAK-062, an investigational treatment aimed at improving gluten tolerance in individuals with celiac disease.6 TAK-062 holds promise as a therapeutic option to ease the burden of a strict gluten-free diet, which is currently the only treatment for celiac disease.
New Scientific Developments to Provide Future Benefits
Science continues to pave the way for new targeted therapies, and the 2024 Nobel Prizes highlight the breakthroughs which can benefit individuals with autoimmune conditions such as T1D and celiac diseases. The discoveries in protein design and microRNA regulation show promise for additional tools for prediction, early detection, and targeted therapies. Until then, nutrition therapy, diabetes education and a comprehensive team-based care approach remain the cornerstone of managing these complex conditions. If you’re interested in learning more check out all of the Nobel Prize winners here.
References
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
To celebrate this important month, we are hosting a **T-shirt and Book Giveaway** to honor the millions of people living with diabetes and those who are working tirelessly to help them manage and prevent this condition.
This month is an opportunity to unite, raise awareness, and deepen our understanding of diabetes, and we want YOU to be a part of it!
We want to hear what your plans are to observe National Diabetes Month. Whether you’re hosting an educational event, organizing a community outreach initiative, or simply taking the time to raise awareness on social media, your efforts are invaluable. Every action, big or small, can make a difference, and your story may inspire others to get involved, too.
Share your plans and activities for National Diabetes Month by Submitting the activities form by November 29th. Tell us what you’re doing to spread awareness, provide education, or advocate for diabetes prevention and management. Your ideas have the power to motivate others to take action, and we’d love to amplify your voice by sharing your initiatives on our social media channels or website.
Several lucky winners will receive a Diabetes Ed T-shirt—a perfect way to show your support for diabetes education—and a copy of the insightful book **”Diabetes & Carb Counting“** by Sherri Shafer, RD, CDCES. This practical and easy-to-follow resource is packed with expert tips and strategies to help anyone navigate the complexities of carb counting for better blood sugar control.
Understanding how to manage carbohydrates is a cornerstone of diabetes care, and Sherri Shafer’s book makes this essential skill accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, an educator, or someone living with diabetes, this guide provides clear, actionable advice to help you refine your carb counting techniques. The book offers straightforward explanations, real-life examples, and practical strategies that make it easier to incorporate carb counting into your daily routine. With Sherri’s expert guidance, you’ll gain the confidence to empower yourself with the tools needed for better diabetes management.
As we celebrate National Diabetes Month, we have the opportunity to inspire change, build stronger communities, and help individuals affected by diabetes lead healthier lives. Whether you’re just starting your diabetes education journey or have been in the field for years, your contributions are vital to improving diabetes care. By sharing your plans and participating in our giveaway, you’re helping to spread the word and create a more informed, supportive environment for everyone impacted by diabetes.
We can’t wait to hear from you and see how you’re making a difference this National Diabetes Month. Together, we can create a lasting impact!
Submit your Diabetes Ed Awareness activity by Nov 29th and enter to win—we look forward to celebrating your efforts with you! 💙
Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and our Level 4 | The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Health awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s CPEU Prior Approval Program.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Dawn Desoto RD, CDCES, celebrates the fall and winter season with a collection of recipes that nourish and heal. Dazzle your taste-buds and energize your gut bacteria with this delicious and seasonal compilation.
Choose a pie pumpkin and wash it’s exterior. Cut in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and pulp. Roast in your oven for about 45 minutes at 350 degrees F.
Simply peel away the skin from the flesh and toss the pumpkin pulp into your food processor or blender.
Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk eggs and pumpkin puree together. Add the rest of the ingredients and whisk them together while slowly pouring in the evaporated milk.
Pour mixture into pie crust. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes at 390 degrees, reduce oven to 350 degrees and bake for another 45 – 60 minutes until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Store in the refrigerator overnight.
Mix the melted butter or coconut oil, walnuts, and cinnamon together and pour over the apples. Bake in the preheated oven until the apples are soft, about 20 – 30 minutes. Stir once during the baking.
Pour the wine into a small saucepan along with the orange zest and juice and all of the spices
Bring almost to a boil and add the pear halves. Turn down the heat and let the pears simmer gently for 20 – 30 minutes, or until they have slightly softened. Carefully turn the pears over a few times throughout the cooking time to ensure they color evenly. When the pears are cooked remove them from the wine and place them on plates. Add a tablespoon of yogurt to each plate and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
Combine coconut milk, oats, chia, banana, maple syrup in a pint-sized jar and stir. Top with blueberries and coconut. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Heat up and sprinkle with walnuts and cinnamon in the morning.
285 calories, 6 gm protein, 57 gms carbohydrate, 7 gms fiber 6 gm fat
To add more color into our diets, I am sharing my Spinach Pomegranate Salad recipe
Toss the spinach leaves with the rest of the ingredients. Serves 4
All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on type 1 and food insecurity. About two thirds of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question:
AR is an 8 year old with type 1 diabetes who has a CGM but still uses insulin injections due to lack of insurance coverage. AR’s parents struggle with food insecurity and some days AR only has school provided breakfast and lunch. You notice he is experiencing level 1 hypoglycemia frequently around 6pm.
What is the best first intervention?
Answer Choices:
Answer 1 is correct. 66.26% chose this answer. “Reassess the insulin dosing strategy.” YES, this is the BEST answer. GREAT JOB! It appears that JR may not have adequate food intake on some days in the early evening hours. To compensate for this decreased food intake, the insulin dose will most likely need to be lowered to prevent dinnertime hypoglycemia. Of course, we would also need to connect AR and their family with social services and other resources.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 24.21% of you chose this answer. “Double check that the family has a glucagon emergency kit.” Although it is important for all people living with type 1 diabetes to have a glucagon rescue medication, the first goal is to prevent severe hypoglycemia. In this situation, the first action is to adjust the insulin dose to prevent dinnertime hypoglycemia. Of course, we would also need to connect AR and their family with social services and other resources.
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 3.18% of respondents chose this. “Reduce insulin dose and start a SGLT-2i to prevent hypoglycemia.” In this situation, the first action is to adjust the insulin dose to prevent dinnertime hypoglycemia. SGLT-2’s are off label for people living with type 1 diabetes and since AR is not in a stable situation, this would not be a good time to evaluate the effectiveness of adding on an SGLT. Of course, we would also need to connect AR and their family with social services and other resources.
Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 6.36% chose this answer. “Make sure AR is wearing identification that says they have type 1 diabetes.” Yes, wearing identification is recommended for people living with type 1 diabetes, but more importantly, we want to prevent hypoglycemia. In this situation, the first action is to adjust the insulin dose to prevent dinnertime hypoglycemia. Of course, we would also need to connect AR and their family with social services and other resources.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Join us to get ready to succeed a the CDCES Exam. This course will transform your test anxiety into calm self-confidence and test taking readiness. Topics covered include:
We will review sample test questions, and the reasoning behind choosing the right answers.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Intended Audience: This FREE webinar is designed for individual or groups of diabetes educators, including RNs, RDs, Pharmacists, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants and other health care providers interested in achieving excellence in diabetes care and becoming Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists®.
Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM is a working educator who has passed her CDCES Exam 7 times. She is a nationally recognized diabetes expert for over 25 years.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
You are caring for ML, a Latinx person with newly diagnosed diabetes about lifestyle modifications. ML mentions that traditional family dinners are a central part of their daily routine.
How can the educator apply cultural humility in their approach to diabetes education to support ML’s dietary needs and preferences?
Join us to get ready to succeed a the CDCES Exam. This course will transform your test anxiety into calm self-confidence and test taking readiness. Topics covered include:
We will review sample test questions, and the reasoning behind choosing the right answers.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Intended Audience: This FREE webinar is designed for individual or groups of diabetes educators, including RNs, RDs, Pharmacists, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants and other health care providers interested in achieving excellence in diabetes care and becoming Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists®.
Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM is a working educator who has passed her CDCES Exam 7 times. She is a nationally recognized diabetes expert for over 25 years.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on helping someone flustered and late to an appointment. 73% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question: JR is a 22-year-old living with type 1 diabetes who arrives late for their appointment and seems out of sorts. When looking at the ambulatory glucose profile, you notice that time in range is less than 40% and coefficient of variation is also over 40%. You remember from a previous visit that JR had experienced almost half a dozen adverse childhood experiences and had elevated diabetes distress.
Based on this information, what is the next best step?
Answer Choices:
Answer 1 is incorrect. 4.31% chose this answer. “Use the empowerment approach to help JR take charge of their life.” Even though the empowerment approach can be used as a tool to help people take a more active role in their self-care, given JR’s level of distress, this would not be the best approach. We will need to first assess the situation and discuss next steps as part of collaborative care.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 9.66% of you chose this answer. “Request that JR is referred to a mental health specialist.” Even though JR is clearly struggling with diabetes distress and being “out of sorts’, this does not automatically mean he needs to be referred to a mental health specialist. We will need to first assess the situation and discuss next steps as part of collaborative care.
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 13.10% of respondents chose this. “Utilize motivational interviewing techniques to help JR through this rough spot.” Even though motivational interviewing can be used as a tool to help people take a more active role in their self-care, given JR’s level of distress, this would not be the best approach. We will need to first assess the situation and discuss next steps as part of collaborative care.
Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 72.93% chose this answer. “Create a judgement free zone and explore with JR how they are feeling.” YES, GREAT JOB. We need to provide a safe environment for JR to have the freedom to share what is happening in their life and support them in taking action to decrease their distress.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer & a variety of other health consequences for adults. This session reviews how diabetes care & education specialists can provide screening, assessment, & trauma-informed care to individuals who experienced ACEs & are living with toxic stress. We will explore strategies to address ACES & improve outcomes for individuals & communities. Throughout, we will focus on supporting self-care with a focus on recognizing & promoting resilience.
Objectives:
Learning Outcome:
Participants will identify how trauma can impact diabetes and self-management along with strategies to support hope when working with people with diabetes.
Target Audience:
This course is a knowledge-based activity designed for individuals or groups of diabetes professionals, including RNs, RDs/RDNs, Pharmacists, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants, and other healthcare providers interested in staying up to date on current practices of care for people with prediabetes, diabetes, and other related conditions. The practice areas for RDs/RDNs for CDR reporting are healthcare, preventative care, wellness, and, lifestyle along with, education and research.
CDR Performance Indicators:
Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, has been Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management for over 15 years. She is an Associate Clinical Professor at UCSF, a working educator, and a nationally recognized diabetes expert.
Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and our Level 4 | The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Health awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s CPEU Prior Approval Program.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Featured Articles
We are all back in the office after an information-packed San Diego Conference.
We are excitedly preparing for our Cyber Monday Sale on December 2nd. All of our online courses will be 30% off, which translates to big savings for individual levels and program bundles.
Plus, you are invited to attend our upcoming FREE webinars on topics ranging from “Adverse Childhood Experiences Impact on Health: Trauma, and Healing” to “The Gut to the Butt” and Diabetes Certification preparation. Register and save your space today,
We can’t wait to celebrate National Diabetes Month with you in November and have exciting plans to expand our online content in 2025,
Thank you for being a part of this fantastic community.
Warmly,
Coach Beverly, Bryanna, Tiffany, Christine, Andrew, and Ginger
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer & a variety of other health consequences for adults. This session reviews how diabetes care & education specialists can provide screening, assessment, & trauma-informed care to individuals who experienced ACEs & are living with toxic stress. We will explore strategies to address ACES & improve outcomes for individuals & communities. Throughout, we will focus on supporting self-care with a focus on recognizing & promoting resilience.
Objectives:
Learning Outcome:
Participants will identify how trauma can impact diabetes and self-management along with strategies to support hope when working with people with diabetes.
Target Audience:
This course is a knowledge-based activity designed for individuals or groups of diabetes professionals, including RNs, RDs/RDNs, Pharmacists, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants, and other healthcare providers interested in staying up to date on current practices of care for people with prediabetes, diabetes, and other related conditions. The practice areas for RDs/RDNs for CDR reporting are healthcare, preventative care, wellness, and, lifestyle along with, education and research.
Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, has been Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management for over 15 years. She is an Associate Clinical Professor at UCSF, a working educator, and a nationally recognized diabetes expert.
Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and our Level 4 | The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Health awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s CPEU Prior Approval Program.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
AR is an 8 year old with type 1 diabetes who has a CGM but still uses insulin injections due to lack of insurance coverage. AR’s parents struggle with food insecurity and some days AR only has school provided breakfast and lunch. You notice he is experiencing level 1 hypoglycemia frequently around 6pm.
What is the best first intervention?
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer & a variety of other health consequences for adults. This session reviews how diabetes care & education specialists can provide screening, assessment, & trauma-informed care to individuals who experienced ACEs & are living with toxic stress. We will explore strategies to address ACES & improve outcomes for individuals & communities. Throughout, we will focus on supporting self-care with a focus on recognizing & promoting resilience.
Topics include:
Intended Audience: These courses are knowledge-based activities designed for individual or groups of diabetes educators, including RNs, RDs, Pharmacists, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants and other health care providers interested in enhancing their knowledge of management of inpatient hyperglycemia.
Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM is a working educator and a nationally recognized diabetes expert.
Two registration options:
Enroll in our entire Level 4 | Advanced & Specialty Topic Courses
Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and our Level 4 | The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Health awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s CPEU Prior Approval Program.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
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Diabetes Education Services offers education and training to diabetes educators in the areas of both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes for the novice to the established professional. Whether you are training to be a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), practicing at an advanced level and interested in board certification, or a health care professional and/or Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) who needs continuing education hours to renew your license or CDCES, we have diabetes education information, resources and training; learning and teaching tools; and diabetes online courses available for continuing education (CE). Read our disclaimer for full disclosure.