Juicebox avatar

Dexa/Juicebox

Learn more
Published Jul 15, 2022

#719 Bold Beginnings: 15/15 Rule

Explore the "15/15 Rule" for diabetes management as Scott Benner and Jenny Smith discuss its role in contemporary care amidst technological advancements, providing insightful guidance for those navigating a new diabetes diagnosis, while the podcast also emphasizes the impact of innovations like Medtronic's InPen in improving daily life for diabetics.
Episode Highlights
Juicebox Podcast: Type 1 Diabetes logo

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Questions from this episode

Episode Highlights

  • Rule Evaluation

    and Jenny Smith critically assess the 15/15 rule, a traditional method for managing low blood sugar in diabetes. They highlight that the rule, which suggests consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates and waiting 15 minutes before retesting, may be outdated and excessive for many individuals. Jenny notes that with current technology, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), people can tailor their carbohydrate intake more precisely to avoid rebound highs.

    The whole premise of the 15/15 rule just does not do well for most people. If we had followed that consistently, our toddler would have been consistently over 400.

    ---

    Scott emphasizes that understanding one's own body and insulin action can lead to more effective management strategies 1 2.

       

    Technology Impact

    The advent of advanced diabetes technologies, like CGMs, has significantly impacted the traditional 15/15 rule. explains that these technologies provide real-time data, allowing for more accurate and timely interventions. This reduces the risk of over-treating lows and experiencing subsequent highs.

    Without a CGM, what is your blood sugar really? Is it falling or is it rising? You would have no idea.

    ---

    Jenny adds that even with newer, rapid-acting insulins, the need for 15 grams of carbs may be excessive, suggesting that smaller amounts could suffice for many 3 4.

Related Episodes