People with T1DM have to take insulin every day, often 4 or 5 times daily. There are different types of insulin & are grouped according to their action profile and content like Rapid or short acting insulin helps to reduce meal time blood glucose, while intermediate and long- acting insulin acts as basal insulin. Mixed insulin are combination of either rapid acting or short acting along with intermediate insulin. Every insulin has its own action profile. Insulin needs to be stored correctly at temperature of 2-8◦C in freeze during hot summers and can be stored at room temperature during winters and rainy season. Correct insulin technique, storage, site rotation all plays a vital role in insulin absorption.
Diet also plays a vital role in management of T1DM. To achieve target A1C goal and target blood sugars, it is important to understand how to balance between food intake, physical activity and insulin. Making healthy food choices & portion control has long term effects on blood sugars. Eating constant amount of food daily and adjusting insulin accordingly helps to improve blood glucose levels. What to eat, how much to eat plays crucial role in blood sugar control. They need to keep balance between macronutrients & micronutrients. Carbohydrates are the main source of the energy & have great impact on blood glucose levels. The amount of carbohydrates in meals can be calculated with the help of carb counting. Keeping watch on carbs in your meals can help match your insulin according to blood glucose and also helps in maintaining target blood glucose levels. Recorded on 28.07.2023.