Think Like a Pancreas Chapter 6: Laying the Foundation (fine-tuning basal insulin)

Basal insulin may not get the attention that bolus doses do, but it's the foundation every diabetes management plan is built on. In this bonus episode of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Jennifer Smith talks with author, Gary Scheiner and breaks down what basal insulin does, why needs vary throughout the day (and from person to person), and how to tell if your dose is right. You'll learn how to evaluate basal insulin using fasting blood sugar patterns, the difference between testing basal on injections versus insulin pumps, and why most people's basal needs make up 40–50% of their total daily insulin and much more. Whether you're on multiple daily injections or a pump, this episode will help you understand the "why" behind basal insulin dosing so you can build a stronger foundation for the rest of your diabetes management.   MEET YOUR HOST AND HER GUEST: Jennifer Smith, RD, LD, CDCES is the Director of Lifestyle and Nutrition for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is renowned for her expertise in nutrition, diabetes education, and athletic performance. Having lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, Jennifer offers unique insight into day-to-day diabetes management, pregnancy, sports nutrition, and technology integration. Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES is the owner and Clinical Director of Integrated Diabetes Services. He is an award-winning Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist and person with type-1 diabetes since 1985.  Gary is also actively involved with many diabetes related organizations as a volunteer and clinical advisor. KEY TAKEAWAYS AND HIGHLIGHTS: ✔️ Basal insulin needs are not flat or the same across all times of day. ✔️ If your basal is set properly, your blood glucose values should be stable throughout the night.   CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:46 Your Basal is Your Foundation 04:10 How to Establish Your Correct Basal Dose of Insulin 05:31Basal Insulin on MDI vs an Insulin Pump 09:46 When Short Term Basal Rate Changes are Required 13:23 Finetuning Your Basal Rates 15:56 Recap RESOURCES: Think Like A Pancreas - 4th edition   https://integrateddiabetes.com/store/think-like-a-pancreas-4th-edition   CONNECT WITH US: 🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com 🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook 🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/appointments/   or email [email protected] SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If the podcast has helped you to live better with diabetes, please tell someone else how to find it! If you have a question, take a moment and ask! We reply to everyone. And then be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode! Disclaimer The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.