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Insulin and weight gain: Keep the pounds off
Insulin and weight gain often go hand in hand, but weight control is possible! If you need insulin therapy, here's how to minimize — or avoid — weight gain.
By Mayo Clinic staffInsulin and weight gain often go hand in hand. But if you need insulin therapy, you're not necessarily doomed to gain unwanted weight. Start by understanding how insulin therapy works. Then consider steps you can take to minimize — or avoid — weight gain while you're taking insulin.
How does insulin therapy work?
Insulin is a hormone that regulates the absorption of sugar (glucose) — your body's main source of fuel — into your cells. Normally, the pancreas secretes insulin when you eat. The insulin allows sugar to enter your cells and, in turn, lowers the amount of sugar in your blood. But if you have diabetes, this process doesn't work properly. Instead of being transported into your cells, excess glucose accumulates in your blood. Eventually, your kidneys may compensate by excreting glucose in your urine.
Enter insulin therapy, which can improve your body's ability to use and store glucose. If you have diabetes, insulin therapy may be an important part of your diabetes treatment plan. Often, insulin is injected using a fine needle and syringe. Other options may include an insulin pen or an insulin pump.
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