Type 1 Different country, different food

I recently moved from the United States to live in France for the next 3 years for a job opportunity. As far as my diabetes goes, I have noticed that the typical amount of insulin that I administer per meal in France is much less than the typical amount I would administer in the states. Initially, I would get low blood sugars often, and it took me a couple of days to realize that, in general, the foods in France have a much lower sugar/carbohydrate content than in America (this goes for foods that I have been eating on a daily basis, including rice, yogurt, pasta, bread, etc.-I can't speak for all foods). For example, I would administer 10 units for a meal in the states and be fine, and then when I would administer 10 units for the same exact meal in France, I would have a low blood sugar soon after. Needless to say, I am now paying much closer attention to nutrition labels. However, I have also had to lower my lantus dosage. I would consistently wake up with low blood sugars (I take my lantus before going to bed), and have now lowered my dosage by 5 units and have found my numbers are much better.

My question is- has anyone else experienced something similar to this? I did some searching on the web and couldn't find any resources, so I figured I would turn to a diabetes forum. Sorry for the long post, but in case anyone finished the whole thing and can relate, I would appreciate any advice or similar stories. Thanks!

TorqPenderloin said:

My first thought was to ask if you're walking or bicycling more after your move. That would certainly be something that could also contribute to your reduced insulin needs.

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This is a great thought! I have definitely been walking/biking much more on a daily basis-definitely something that would have an impact that I did not consider. Thanks!