New book offers different view on understanding type 1 diabetes management

A new book challenging traditional glucose-centric type 1 diabetes management has been published by a doctor living with the condition.

Dr Ian Lake, a UK-based medical doctor, has documented his 1,000-mile cycling journey from England to Switzerland, which was completed on just 20 grams of carbs a day.

The new book outlines how he used the experience to test a transformative approach to diabetes management: use as much insulin as necessary, but as little as possible.

Entitled ‘Shifting Gears: The 1,000-Mile Ride That Changed My Mindset on Type 1 Diabetes’, the book weaves daily travel entries with clear, accessible explanations of insulin biology and the wider forces that shape type 1 diabetes.

In addition, the novel explores how nutrition, activity, mindset, environment and circadian rhythm interact with insulin to influence stability, energy and wellbeing.

For more than 20 years, Dr Lake has lived with type 1 diabetes. Drawing on both lived experience and medical expertise, he uses to book to introduce the concept of ‘optimised insulin’ – a strategy focused on reducing insulin requirements while improving glucose stability, overall health and quality of life.

Describing his inspiration behind the book, Dr Lake said: “I had followed guidelines for years and I had been getting sicker.”

The book is supported by Professor Eric C. Westman – a leading expert in metabolic medicine from Duke University Health System in North Carolina, United States.

The book is available to purchase here.