1. What is Insulin Sensitivity Factor?

The Insulin Sensitivity Factor (ISF), also known as correction factor, represents how much 1 unit of insulin will lower blood glucose. It's a crucial parameter for insulin therapy in diabetes management.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ISF formula:

Where:

• \( TDD \) — Total daily insulin dose (units)
• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• 0.055 — Empirical constant derived from clinical studies

Explanation: The formula estimates how sensitive your body is to insulin based on your total daily insulin requirement and body weight.

3. Importance of ISF Calculation

Details: Accurate ISF estimation is essential for determining proper insulin correction doses and maintaining optimal blood glucose control in diabetes management.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total daily insulin dose in units and your current weight in kilograms. Both values must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I recalculate my ISF?
A: You should recalculate whenever your total daily insulin dose changes significantly (by 10% or more) or if your weight changes substantially.

Q2: Is this formula suitable for all types of diabetes?
A: It's primarily used for type 1 diabetes and insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Q3: What are typical ISF values?
A: Typical values range from 2-5 mmol/L per unit, but this varies widely between individuals based on insulin sensitivity.

Q4: Should I use this for insulin dose adjustments?
A: This provides an estimate. Always work with your healthcare team to determine your actual ISF through controlled testing.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: Yes, it doesn't account for factors like physical activity, stress, illness, or hormonal changes that can affect insulin sensitivity.