Insulin is a hormone that every person with diabetes needs to know about. Insulin is necessary for our bodies to convert glucose (sugar) into energy, and without it, our bodies cannot function properly. So, if you are living with diabetes or are a caretaker of someone with diabetes, learning about insulin is crucial. This comprehensive guide is for people living with diabetes and their families to help them better understand insulin and how it works within the body.
What is Insulin and How Does it Work?
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate glucose levels in the body. Insulin is responsible for moving glucose from your bloodstream into your cells, where it is either used as energy or stored for future use. Insulin is crucial for keeping your blood sugar levels in check, as having too much glucose in your blood can lead to serious health problems, including nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease.
Types of Insulin
There are several types of insulin available that are used to treat diabetes. Rapid-acting insulin begins to work within 15 minutes of injection and peaks within an hour. Short-acting insulin begins to work within 30 minutes, peaks in 2-3 hours, and lasts for 4-6 hours. Intermediate-acting insulin begins to work within 2-4 hours, peaks in 4-12 hours, and lasts for up to 24 hours. Long-acting insulin begins to work within 2-4 hours, has no peak and lasts for up to 24 hours. Your doctor will help you determine which option is best for you based on your lifestyle and type of diabetes.
Insulin Delivery Methods
insulin is administered through injections or through an insulin pump. Injections are typically recommended for those who only need to inject insulin once or twice per day. An insulin pump is a small device that delivers insulin continuously throughout the day. It can be especially useful for those whose insulin needs vary throughout the day. A healthcare provider can help you choose the best method for you based on your personal needs and preferences.
Monitoring Your Insulin Intake
Monitoring your insulin intake is crucial to managing diabetes. Keeping track of your blood sugar levels and insulin intake can help you adjust your diet, physical activity, and insulin use to prevent high or low blood sugar levels. A continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device can help you continuously track your blood sugar levels and alert you to changes that require action.
Learning about insulin is a critical part of managing diabetes. This comprehensive guide provided an overview of what insulin is, how it works within the body, the different types of insulin, insulin delivery methods, and how to monitor your insulin intake. Anyone living with diabetes should be aware of the importance of insulin in managing their health, and consulting with your healthcare provider can help you make the best decisions to help manage your diabetes. Stay informed, stay healthy.
Northeast Missouri Health Council, Partners for a lifetime of health
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