Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use a hormone known as insulin. Its purpose is to convert sugar, starches, and other food into sugar. Without insulin, the body's cells are unable to use glucose for energy; this causes your blood glucose level to rise. Since Type 1 and 2 diabetics have different insulin issues, their insulin needs may vary. Type 1 diabetics are insulin resistant, meaning their body is incapable of creating insulin. Unlike Type 1 diabetics, people with Type 2 diabetes can produce insulin; however, they may be unable to use insulin to lower blood sugar. These insufficiencies, if left unmanaged, can lead to long-term illnesses like cancer and heart disease. For people with diabetes, insulin is critical in maintaining normal blood sugar and overall health.

In order for your body to convert glucose into energy, the pancreas must produce insulin. If the body fails to produce or properly use insulin, glucose cannot enter the body's cells. Since cells cannot use or store glucose, it spills into the bloodstream. This is what causes your blood sugar to rise. Over time, poorly managed blood sugar can increase your risk of developing other diseases. With the help of daily insulin shots, diabetics can prevent high blood glucose levels and health risks associated with the disease.

Insulin comes in four types: rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate acting, and long-acting. These insulin types vary in onset, peaktime, and duration. For instance, rapid-acting insulin works almost immediately, and can control blood sugar for up to 4 hours. Short-acting insulin may take half an hour to lower your blood sugar, but it lasts longer than rapid-acting. Unlike rapid-acting and short-acting, intermediate takes longer to begin working. Most commonly used in the morning and before bedtime, long-acting insulin can last for almost a day. Pre-mixed insulin is also available. This insulin typically blends short-acting and intermediate acting insulin to provide relief at and in between meals.

If you've been recently diagnosed, it's important to discuss diabetes and insulin with your physician, so you can choose the insulin that best suits your needs. Your doctor will also advise you on when to administer insulin. How often you take insulin depends on your diet, physical activity, type of insulin, and other conditions or illnesses you have. Although insulin needs differ from person to person, you may need more insulin after a meal because your body is busy processing glucose. On the other hand, when you're sleeping, you may require less insulin.

Since the body's digestive system would break down insulin if taken orally, it can only be injected. For people with diabetes, insulin and syringes are not covered by Medicare; however, other testing supplies are, including blood glucose test strips and monitors, lancets, and insulin pump supplies.

Diabetes and insulin is an all too common combination. For the millions of Americans suffering from diabetes, insulin can help manage the disease. Before beginning a diabetes management plan, consult your doctor about the side effects associated with diabetes and insulin. Remember to check your blood glucose before taking insulin. Having too much insulin in your system may cause your blood sugar to drop below normal, resulting in fatigue, seizure, or a coma.