WHAT DO I EAT WITH Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 Diabetes is where the pancreas does not produce insulin.
Insulin then needs to be given by an injection or insulin pump.
Depending on the time since you were diagnosed, the type of insulin regime (basal, mixed insulin, basal - bolus, or insulin pump) you are on, your dietary advice and intake may vary.
Carbohydrate Counting is an important skill for people who adjust insulin doses or have insulin pump therapy.
Carbohydrate Counting
Being able to count carbohydrate is an essential skill for people who are on insulin adjustment programs, using a smart meter, planning to use, or on an insulin pump (CSII).
Guidelines recommend carbohydrate counting to assist in control of blood glucose levels.
Carbohydrate counting doesn't need to be as complex as some people assume.
It’s important to identify which foods contain carbohydrates, and count the amount from food labels, foods without food labels, from recipes, and when eating out.
Food databases and apps can also assist you with this skill.
Insulin : Carbohydrate Ratio.
Keeping blood glucose levels within target after meals is best achieved by carbohydrate counting and an appropriate insulin:carbohydrate ratio.
Here the amount of insulin given depends on the amount of carbohydrate eaten.
Carbohydrate (carb) counting is one piece of the puzzle, and must be considered as part of the overall dietary intake. Accounting for the fat and protein in meals is an evolving area which can assist in making the glucose levels after a meal less variable.
Activity
Activity (exercise) will affect your blood glucose levels. Carbohydrate intake before, during and after exercise may vary depending on your duration and intensity of exercise.
Balancing Carbohydrate, Insulin and Exercise for Blood Glucose Control