Medical Encyclopedia
Insulin-to-carb ratios often change over time but they can also change according to the time of day and during times of illness.
Many patients on insulin may find that they need more insulin to cover food (or less) at certain times of the day.
Another thing that impacts how much insulin a child may need is whether or not they are honeymooning, in the midst of a growth spurt, or are anxious or excited.
Anytime you hare having trouble managing blood sugars it is important to call your doctor immediately.
Insulin-to-carb ratio
Glucose" is a form of sugar and so blood glucose is also often referred to as blood sugar. For the purpose of this definition we will use the term "blood glucose" but either term is generally considered acceptable.
Definition of "insulin-to-carb ratio:" The insulin-to-carb ratio is a formula used to calculate the amount of insulin needed to cover food eaten at snacks and meals. A person with diabetes who needs to use insulin will be given both a correction factor and an insulin-to-carb ratio by their doctor.
Everyone has a unique insulin-to-carb ratio and other things need to be considered when giving insulin for a correction or for a food bolus. For example, a person needs to know how much insulin was last given and how long ago. They also need to take into account what physical activity they will be doing (i.e., a person may need less insulin to cover food if they are going to exercise).
Please be sure to talk with your doctor if you have questions about how to determine your need for insulin.
All persons with the juvenile form of type 1 diabetes need to take insulin to live.
Want help determining how to calculate your need for insulin? First, be sure to check with your doctor but you can also use Insulin Pumper's insulin calculating tool to better understand how your doctor might determine your need for insulin.