Q. Carbohydrate distribution in insulin?
The carbohydrate distribution varies with the type of insulin prescribed. For example, in case of regular insulin 1/3rd each carbohydrate in three meals can be distributed but not in the intermediate or long-acting insulin. In intermediate it could be 1/7th for breakfast, 2/7th for noon, 1/7th mid-afternoon, 2/7th Tor evening and 1/7th at bed time. For long acting insulin; it could be 1/5th for breakfast, U5th noon and 2/5th evening and remaining for bed time.
A diabetic patient need not always be hospitalized and can refer to a dietician on a day-to-day basis. The food intake and activity level are ever changing variables that affect blood glucose levels. Festivals, religious occasions, professional and social responsibilities along with common illness such as constipation, fever, cold etc. can affect the insulin and food requirements markedly. It has, therefore, been strongly advocated that diabetics must be rigorously counselled so that they can manage their blood glucose levels themselves. Patient education through counseling sessions and mass media can help reduce the morbidities associated with diabetes.