Common Misconceptions About Insulin

There are a lot of common myths surrounding diabetes management and insulin use. Below we take a look at three of the most common diabetes myths – and tell you where they go wrong.

1. Myth: Insulin injections hurt.
   Fact: Insulin does require the use of a needle, but the needles are smaller and thinner which means that they often hurt less than most other shots. Many diabetics find that their injections are less painful than the finger sticks required to monitor blood sugar.
2. Myth: Insulin makes you fat.
   Fact: Some diabetics claim that insulin causes weight gain. While insulin can lend a predisposition to gain weight – healthy eating and regular exercise allow many individuals who rely on insulin to avoid weight gain.
3. Myth: Diabetics who use insulin have a more serious condition than those who don’t use insulin.
   Diabetes is a serious condition. Whether you’re using insulin or controlling it through diet and physical activity alone, you should always take your condition very seriously and take the proper steps to ensure your healthiest and safest life.

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Source: CDC/NIH: New Beginnings: A Discussion Guide for Living Well with Diabetes, Nov 2005.