Building Competency in Diabetes Education THE ESSENTIALS

BASAL-BOLUS INSULIN THERAPY | 12-91

over several hours (154). Algorithms for improved bolusing are under investigation. Prandial insulin dose takes into account not only the carbohydrate content, but also the glycemic index of the food and any activity around mealtime. Although carbohydrate counting is intended to increase variety in the diet and decrease complexity, its use relies on mathematics, which some people may find intimidating. A person’s math skills should be assessed and additional education provided, if required. With the assistance of a calculator, most people are able to learn carbohydrate counting and become confident in their skills. Insulin pumps, some blood glucose monitors and some apps can assist with insulin dose calculations. Diabetes Canada has developed Basic Carbohydrate Counting (155), a tool which can be used by diabetes educators for teaching the essentials of carbohydrate counting. To initiate carbohydrate counting, the person must be knowledgeable about the carbohydrate content of the food that they eat. There are many resources that can be used to achieve this task.

Carbohydrate counting resources • Computer nutrient-analysis programs. • Restaurant menu nutrient information. • Food labels. • Mobile apps and websites (some examples are as follows):

o Myfitnesspal o Sparkpeople o FatSecret

o CalorieKing o MyNetDiary o Loseit o Carbscontrol-carb counter and tracker o Carbs and cals o Track 3-Diabetes Planner and Carb counter o Glucose Buddy o Diabetes:M