He’s Off Mealtime Insulin: Here’s His Tzield Story

Send us Fan Mail What if a newly diagnosed person with type 1 diabetes (T1D) could dramatically reduce their insulin needs, or even stop taking mealtime insulin altogether? In this episode of the Diabetes Nerd Podcast, we sit down with Jacob, who was diagnosed with T1D in February 2026 and enrolled in the Beta Preserve clinical trial just weeks later. The study is exploring whether two rounds of Tzield (teplizumab) can preserve insulin-producing beta cells more effectively than a single treatment. Just months after beginning treatment, Jacob has cut his basal insulin by more than half and no longer needs mealtime insulin. He shares what it was like to undergo 12 consecutive days of Tzield infusions, the side effects he experienced, and how his blood sugars and daily life have changed. We also discuss how Tzield works, why early screening for type 1 diabetes is becoming increasingly important, and what this research could mean for the future of T1D treatment. Most importantly, Jacob explains why he hopes his story inspires others to consider screening, clinical trials, and opportunities to preserve beta cell function after diagnosis. If you live with type 1 diabetes, care for someone who does, or want to stay informed about the latest diabetes research, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Would you consider participating in a clinical trial like this? Have questions about Tzield or T1D screening? Leave a comment. We'd love to hear your thoughts. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com/ginger. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES   INSTAGRAM   LINKEDIN   GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS 🔥 NEW RELEASE: Every Day with Diabetes Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies   Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey SUPPORT INDEPENDENT DIABETES EDUCATION 👉 If you found value in today's episode and want to support independent diabetes education, advocacy, and storytelling, you can leave a tip at buymeacoffee.com/diabetesnerd .  Every contribution helps keep the podcast going and allows us to continue bringing important conversations to the diabetes community.  Thank you for being here. 🧡 DISCLOSURE: Ginger is an affiliate of Glow Gummies and Good Journey Donuts. By using her links to purchase, she may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Enjoy! Support the show