Are low lipase levels common in type 1 diabetes and are pancreatic supplements helpful (for improving digestion, insulin sensitivity)? I do not have high cholesterol or high blood pressure.

It is good to have low lipase levels. High levels usually mean that your pancreas is inflamed and that is not good. The pancreatic enzymes are used as replacement therapy for those who have had damage to their pancreas and have trouble digesting fats and protein. The enzymes are usually taken with meals and help with digestion. Examples of conditions where the pancreas has been destroyed and require enzymes include cystic fibrosis and chronic pancreatitis. Although type 1 diabetes involves damage to the pancreas, the damage in type 1 diabetes is usually restricted to the pancreatic islets and enzyme production is usually normal. Therefore, patients with type 1 diabetes do not require supplementation with pancreatic enzymes. There are several diabetes-associated gut abnormalities associated with diabetes. They are usually not treated with pancreatic enzymes.

JTL