Insulin and weight gain

Weight gain is a common side effect for people who take insulin. However, controlling weight is  possible and is also an important part of the overall diabetes management plan.

The connection between insulin and weight gain

Insulin allows glucose to enter the cells so that the level of blood glucose drops. However, if a person’s calorie intake is high and activity level is low, then there will be more calories than is needed to maintain a healthy weight, and body cells will get more glucose than they need.

Glucose that body cells don't use is stored as fat.

Weight gain may also be the result of other complex functions of insulin that are related to how cells use fats and proteins.

 How to avoid weight gain while taking insulin

Eating healthy foods and staying physically active every day can help you prevent unwanted weight gain. The following tips can help you prevent weight gain:

 

1.    Count calories. Consume foods that have lower calories. Use more fruits, vegetables and whole grains in the diet. Have a balanced meal each day. Cut down portion sizes, avoid second helpings and drink water instead of high-calorie drinks. Your dietitian will help you with meal planning methods.

2.    Don't skip meals. Don't skip meals to lose weight. It decreases the   body’s ability to use energy properly , and when a person is hungry they tend to eat the wrong type of foods. Skipping meals also causes large fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Three small meals a day with healthy snacks in between can result in better control of weight and blood glucose levels.

3.    Be physically active. Physical activity burns calories. A reasonable goal for most adults is a minimum of 150 minutes a week of moderately intense aerobic activity — such as walking, bicycling, water aerobics, dancing or gardening — plus muscle-strengthening exercises at least two times a week. Get advice from the doctor about what you can do.

4.    Take your insulin only as directed. Don't missor reduce your insulin dosages to prevent weight gain. Without enough insulin, blood glucose levels will rise — and so will the risk of diabetes complications.

Ref:
www.diabetes.org
www.mayoclinic.com