The Rule of 15 (And Why We Ignore It)
Failed to add items
Add to basket failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from Wish List failed.
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
-
Narrated by:
-
By:
About this listen
Show Notes
Everyone with type 1 diabetes has heard of the Rule of 15. Treat a low with 15 grams of fast-acting carbs, wait 15 minutes, and recheck. Simple. Logical. Universally ignored.
In this episode, we break down why the Rule of 15 sounds great on paper but completely falls apart in real life. We talk about what actually happens to your brain during a low, why waiting feels impossible, and how “just in case” turns into rebound highs, frustration, and guilt.
This isn’t about shaming you for not following the rule. It’s about understanding why it’s hard and how to work with your brain instead of fighting it, so lows stop hijacking the rest of your day.
What You Can Do Today
Think about the last time you treated a low and immediately added extra food “just to be safe.”
Notice what made waiting feel impossible in that moment, fear, impatience, or past bad experiences.
Decide what 15 grams of fast-acting glucose looks like for you so you’re not guessing next time.
No judgment. Just clarity.
Resources
Helpful resources and newsletter:
https://yourbestt1dyear.com
Sponsor Connect
Blue Circle Health offers free coaching and care that fits real life for adults with type 1 diabetes. Their team helps with insulin adjustments, CGM support, burnout, and the mental load of diabetes, without fighting the healthcare system alone.
Sign up free at:
https://bluecirclehealth.org
Connect
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@the.betes
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thebetes
Facebook: https://facebook.com/neilgreathouse
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/neil-greathouse-a607b912
Website: https://yourbestt1dyear.com
Books on Amazon
Type 1 Diabetes – One Day at a Time
https://a.co/d/6UHooWJ
Type 1 Diabetes – True Stories
https://a.co/d/dfIlyI1