Previously known as “insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus,” or “juvenile diabetes. ” Type 1 diabetes is a life-long condition in which the pancreas stops making insulin. Without insulin, the body is not able to use glucose (blood sugar) for energy. To treat the disease, a person must inject insulin, follow a specific eating plan, exercise daily, and test blood sugar several times a day. Type 1 diabetes usually, but not always, begins before the age of 30.