Functional Insulin Treatment Principles, Teaching Approach, and Practice

Functional Insulin Treatment (FIT) is the most effective method of treatmentfor type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes available today. Whether with an insulin pump or with mul- tiple daily injections, the diabetic patient trained in FIT is able to dose his insulin on the basis of actual fuction so that he achieves near-normoglycemia and the freedom to eat when, what and how much he wants. Previous diabetes eduction programs have adaped the patient's lifestyle to the conditions of therapy. The goal ofFIT is to adapt the therapy to the lifestyle of the pa- tient. Combined withthe opportunity for active and respon- sible patient participation, this flexibility has an enor- mous positive effect on the patient's long-term motivation. This book creates a common basis for communication among therapists (physicians, nurses, dietitians, diabetes educa- tors) and patients involved in FIT. It clearly defines the principles of the treatment and describes the contents, media and techniques of a practical program for training patients to carry it out. The reader is given a clear pictureof just what knowledge and skills the patient needs - and how to help him acquire them - in order to attain the twin goals of excellent metabolic control and flexible life- style.