Insulin is usually associated with type 1 diabetes, but many people with type 2 diabetes need it too. In March 2024, over 310,000 Australians with type 2 diabetes were taking insulin. That’s almost 1 in 4 people with type 2 diabetes who need insulin. And people with type 2 diabetes make up 65% of all Australians with diabetes who take insulin. DL Magazine dietitian and diabetes educator, Dr Kate Marsh, explains why someone with type 2 might need insulin, addresses common concerns and provides practical tips for star ting insulin therapy.
WHAT IS INSULIN?
Insulin is a hormone made by cells in the pancreas called beta cells. When we eat, the beta cells release insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin takes the glucose from the food we eat and moves it into our muscles and cells to use as energy. Without insulin, our bodies cannot properly use food for energy. Instead, glucose builds up in the bloodstream and can cause other health problems such as
