Health Tips: When do diabetic patients need insulin?

Allegations and counter-allegations are being made in the political circles of Delhi regarding CM Arvind Kejriwal, who is lodged in Tihar Jail in a money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy. Kejriwal, suffering from diabetes (Type 2), was demanding daily insulin from the jail administration. The political turmoil regarding this has increased further. In such a situation, let us know what is insulin. When and why is it needed? Why is it important for diabetic patients?

What is insulin?

First of all, let us know what is insulin. According to the Healthline website, insulin is a hormone that helps in converting sugar (glucose) into energy in the body. It is produced in the body with the help of a gland called the pancreas. Insulin is very important for our body. It helps in controlling blood sugar levels. In diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin or the body is not able to use insulin properly.

There are two types of diabetes...

Type 1 diabetes: This is an autoimmune disease, in which the body's immune system destroys the pancreas, due to which the body stops producing insulin.

Type 2 Diabetes: This is a very common disease, and most diabetic patients suffer from this disease. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also has type 2 diabetes. It is usually associated with overweight or obesity.

When do diabetic patients need insulin?

In type 1 diabetes, the body does not make insulin at all. In such a situation, as per the doctor's advice, the patient may need to take insulin throughout his life.

In type 2 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin or use it properly. In some cases, medicines can help control blood sugar levels. But, if medicines do not work, insulin may be needed.

Why is insulin important for diabetic patients?

Insulin helps in controlling blood sugar levels. High blood sugar level increases the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. In such a situation, insulin helps in preventing these problems and living a healthy life with diabetes.