### Understanding Insulin Therapy for Diabetes Management Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps lower blood sugar levels. For people with diabetes, their bodies either don't produce enough insulin or can't use it effectively. Insulin therapy is a treatment that mimics the natural action of insulin to manage blood sugar levels. #### How Insulin Works After you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters your bloodstream and raises your blood sugar levels. Insulin helps move glucose from your bloodstream into your cells, where it is used for energy or stored for later use in fat, muscles, and the liver. This process helps normalize blood sugar levels. #### Types of Diabetes - **Type 1 Diabetes:** The pancreas produces little to no insulin due to damage to the beta cells. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin multiple times a day. - **Type 2 Diabetes:** The body becomes resistant to insulin, and the pancreas can't produce enough insulin over time. Some people with type 2 diabetes may need insulin therapy. #### Insulin Administration Insulin can't be taken as a pill because stomach enzymes would break it down. Instead, it is injected under the skin using a syringe, pump, or pen. There is also an inhaled version that works like an asthma inhaler. #### Types of Insulin - **Rapid-acting Insulin:** Starts working within 15 minutes and lasts 2-4 hours. - **Short-acting Insulin:** Begins to work within 30 minutes and lasts 3-6 hours. - **Intermediate-acting Insulin:** Takes 2-4 hours to start working and lasts 12-18 hours. - **Long-acting Insulin:** Begins working in a few hours and lasts up to 24 hours. By understanding how insulin therapy works, people with diabetes can better manage their blood sugar levels and maintain a healthier lifestyle.