What Is Type 1.5 Diabetes? Symptoms, Root Causes, and Holistic Healing Approaches

Type 1.5 diabetes, also known as LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults), is a misunderstood and often misdiagnosed form of diabetes that falls between Type 1 and Type 2. While it shares characteristics of both, it has its own distinct root causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches—especially when viewed through a holistic lens.

If you’ve been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes but something doesn’t feel quite right—or if your treatment plan isn’t working as expected—Type 1.5 could be the missing piece. In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms, root causes, and both proven and anecdotal holistic strategies that can support your body naturally.

What Is Type 1.5 Diabetes (LADA)?

Type 1.5 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body gradually attacks its own insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. It is often initially misdiagnosed as Type 2 diabetes because it usually develops in adults and has a slower progression than classic Type 1 diabetes.

However, unlike Type 2, which is largely caused by insulin resistance, Type 1.5 is autoimmune in origin, like Type 1. This means that over time, the body will produce less and less insulin, and many patients eventually require insulin therapy.

Common Symptoms of Type 1.5 Diabetes

Symptoms can develop gradually over months or even years, but they eventually mirror classic diabetes symptoms:

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue and brain fog

• Increased hunger

• Blurred vision

• Frequent infections or slow wound healing

• Mood swings or irritability

Because the onset is slower than Type 1, many people—especially adults—are misdiagnosed with Type 2 and put on oral medications that do little to help.

Root Causes of Type 1.5 Diabetes

From a conventional perspective, Type 1.5 is caused by an autoimmune reaction in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas. However, a holistic approach digs deeper. Here are some root causes worth exploring:

1. Autoimmune Imbalance

The immune system becomes confused and begins attacking healthy tissue. Triggers can include:

• Chronic viral infections

• Leaky gut syndrome

• Gluten sensitivity (common in Type 1 and LADA patients)

• Heavy metal or chemical toxicity

• Chronic stress and trauma

2. Gut Dysbiosis

Up to 70% of your immune system resides in your gut. Imbalances in the microbiome (from antibiotics, processed food, and chemicals) may provoke autoimmune reactions.

3. Genetic Susceptibility

Some people carry genetic markers (like HLA types) that make them more prone to autoimmune conditions. However, genes are not destiny—lifestyle and environment play a key role.

4. Environmental Triggers

Toxins such as BPA, glyphosate, mercury, or EMFs may contribute to the rising rates of autoimmune disorders and diabetes.

5. Emotional Trauma and Stress

Long-term unresolved stress can dysregulate both the nervous system and immune system, contributing to autoimmunity. The connection between emotional trauma and chronic illness is increasingly supported by psychoneuroimmunology.

Holistic Healing Strategies for Type 1.5 Diabetes

While insulin therapy is often required at some point, many people with Type 1.5 diabetes find they can slow progression, improve resilience, and support overall wellness using natural methods. Here’s a comprehensive holistic approach:

1. Nutrition: Feed the Body, Calm the Immune System

• Low-Glycemic Diet: Avoid sugar, refined grains, and high-carb processed foods. Focus on vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.

• Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Include turmeric, ginger, garlic, leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and fermented foods.

• Balanced Blood Sugar Meals: Combine fiber, fat, and protein to stabilize glucose levels and reduce spikes.

• Gluten-Free Diet: Many LADA patients report improved autoimmune symptoms by removing gluten.

• Raw Dairy and Traditional Foods: Some find healing benefits from fermented raw milk, kefir, and broths, which support the gut and immune system.

• Ketogenic or Carnivore Diet: Although controversial, some individuals experience dramatic blood sugar stability on extremely low-carb diets—but these require close monitoring.

2. Herbs and Supplements: Natural Support for Blood Sugar and Immunity

• Berberine: Comparable to metformin in lowering blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity.

• Magnesium & Chromium: Vital for glucose metabolism.

• Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): Protects nerves and lowers oxidative stress.

• Bitter Melon, Gymnema Sylvestre, and Fenugreek: Traditional herbs that support blood sugar regulation.

• Adaptogens: Ashwagandha and holy basil may help balance stress hormones and support immune health.

3. Gut Healing Protocols: Address the Autoimmune Trigger

• Probiotics and Fermented Foods: Restore beneficial bacteria.

• Bone Broth and Collagen: Heal the gut lining and reduce inflammation.

• Elimination Diet: Temporarily remove common allergens like gluten, dairy, soy, corn, and reintroduce strategically.

4. Detoxification: Reduce the Toxic Burden

• Daily Hydration with Mineral-Rich Water

• Regular Sweating: Through sauna, exercise, or hot baths to release toxins.

• Liver-Supportive Herbs: Milk thistle, dandelion root, and burdock are traditionally used to aid detoxification.

5. Stress Reduction and Nervous System Regulation

• Breathwork, Meditation, and Prayer: Calms the nervous system and reduces cortisol, which can worsen blood sugar imbalances.

• Nature Exposure and Grounding: Anecdotal but promising for reducing inflammation and restoring balance.

• Somatic Healing and Trauma Work: Following the insights of Gabor Maté and others, resolving trauma may reduce the autoimmune burden.

6. Movement and Exercise

• Daily Walking and Strength Training: Both increase insulin sensitivity and aid glucose uptake.

• Yoga and Stretching: Reduce stress while gently stimulating metabolism and circulation.

7. Track and Tailor Your Healing

• Use a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) or regular finger testing to understand your personal triggers and responses.

• Keep a health journal: Note food, mood, movement, and glucose patterns.

Final Thoughts: You Are the Healer You've Been Waiting For

Type 1.5 diabetes is often missed or misunderstood—but if you’ve landed here, you’re already taking the most important step: becoming your own advocate.

A holistic approach doesn’t promise a cure, but it can slow disease progression, reduce medication dependence, and restore vitality. Your body was designed with incredible healing intelligence. When you give it the right support—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—it can begin to thrive again.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're ready to go deeper into holistic healing and want to learn how to heal yourself and others naturally, visit Arukah.com and explore our Holistic Healer Certification Program. Learn the natural tools that doctors aren’t taught and help others reclaim their health—starting with your own.