Kathrin M. Nelson (TRN), Kinga Howorka Functional Insulin Treatment

Annotation

Functional Insulin Treatment (FIT) is the most effectivemethod of treatmentfor type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetesavailable today. Whether with an insulin pump or with mul-tiple daily injections, the diabetic patient trained in FITis able to dose his insulin on the basis of actual fuctionso that he achieves near-normoglycemia and the freedom toeat when, what and how much he wants. Previous diabetes eduction programs have adaped thepatient's lifestyle to the conditions of therapy. The goalofFIT 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 amongtherapists (physicians, nurses, dietitians, diabetes educa-tors) and patients involved in FIT. It clearly defines theprinciples of the treatment and describes the contents,media and techniques of a practical program for trainingpatients to carry it out. The reader is given a clearpictureof just what knowledge and skills the patient needs -and how to help him acquire them - in order to attain thetwin goals of excellent metabolic control and flexible life-style.