Weight Loss While Using Insulin - Tips on Dropping Pounds Safely

Weight gain is a common side effect when insulin is started. It's tough for many people to deal with - people with type 2 diabetes are told time and time again that maintaining a healthy weight makes it easier to control blood glucose levels, and yet the very medication taken to help with diabetes causes them to put on more weight. It's not easy, but weight loss while using insulin can be done.

The use of insulin can cause weight gain because insulin helps our bodies absorb glucose more efficiently. The glucose enters our cells, and the amount in the blood decreases in return. When we eat more than our bodies need, the glucose builds up in our cells. The glucose that doesn't get used up is instead stored as fat. Even if we eat the same amount as we did prior to starting insulin, the chances of us gaining weight is pretty good just because our bodies are now able to process insulin better and thus we don't need as much food.

Our society is obsessed with being thin. For health reasons, and not appearance, it is good to avoid excess weight (or at least prevent gaining more weight). Some people are so afraid of the weight gain that they decrease insulin to try to avoid it. This isn't a safe way to prevent weight gain; persistent high blood sugar levels can lead to much more serious complications of diabetes.

Here are a few tips to help you lose weight while using insulin:

• Don't skip meals. In the long run, skipping meals slows down the metabolism because our bodies learn to become more efficient at conserving calories, in preparation for the next skipped meal. Follow a regular meal and snack schedule to keep the metabolism burning all day long.

• Eat the right number of calories. Talk to a registered dietician or nutritionist to determine the right number of calories for you, as well as an appropriate and healthy diet. They will take into account your current weight, your activity level, and the weight you wish to lose. Don't eat too few calories or once again, the body will learn to slow down the metabolism. Too many calories will lead to weight gain. Spread the calories between all your meals and snacks to keep the metabolism steady throughout the day.

• 
  Exercise regularly. Exercise has many benefits. Aside from helping to regulate blood sugar levels, it's a natural mood enhancer, it makes our bodies fitter and healthier, and it also burns calories, which can assist in safe, long-term weight loss. Establish a regular exercise routine and try to exercise every day (or nearly every day). Do a combination of aerobic exercise and strength exercise. Aerobic exercise burns more calories while you're active. However, muscle burns more calories even while you're resting. Work with your doctor to determine an appropriate exercise program for your individual situation.

• Talk to your doctor about different types of insulin and medication. Some medications are available to help regulate blood sugar levels. The use of these medications may enable you to reduce the amount of insulin you take. Also ask about the types of insulin available to you. Some people have reported more weight gain on certain types of insulin.

Unfortunately, there's no magic or easy way to lose weight. Weight loss while using insulin is challenging, but it can be done. Stick with a healthy eating plan, regular exercise, and prescribed medication and lose weight safely and for long-term health.