Insulin-to-Carbohydrate Calculator

What is Insulin-to-Carbohydrate Ratio?

The Insulin-to-Carbohydrate Ratio (I:C Ratio) determines the amount of insulin you need to cover your carbohydrate intake in grams. This ratio is particularly helpful for individuals managing diabetes, allowing them to estimate insulin dosages more accurately during meals.

Why is I:C Ratio Important?

Understanding your I:C Ratio helps to:

• Improve Blood Sugar Control: Helps calculate insulin dosages based on meal carbohydrate content.
• Personalize Insulin Dosing: Adjusts dosages to individual needs, reducing risks of hypo- or hyperglycemia.
• Support Diabetes Management: Simplifies meal planning for individuals managing insulin-dependent diabetes.

How is I:C Ratio Calculated?

The Insulin-to-Carbohydrate Ratio is calculated as:

I:C Ratio = Total Carbohydrate Intake (grams) ÷ Number of Daily Insulin Units

This formula assumes a steady insulin dose throughout the day and provides the grams of carbohydrate covered by one unit of insulin.

Example Calculation

Inputs:
  Total Carbohydrate Intake = 180 grams
  Daily Insulin Units = 30

Calculation:
  I:C Ratio = 180 ÷ 30
           = 6.0

Here, 1 unit of insulin covers 6 grams of carbohydrate.

Benefits of Knowing Your I:C Ratio

• Customized Meal Plans: Enables you to confidently include carbohydrates in your diet.
• Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Allows for better control of blood sugar levels after meals.
• Reduces Risks: Minimizes chances of hypo- or hyperglycemia by matching insulin to carbohydrate needs.

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