Is It Possible To Lose Weight While On Insulin?

Posted on Sat, 27 Apr 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 Answered on

Mon, 27 May 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. I have a sister who insists it is impossible to lose weight on insulin. I have and have kept it off for 20 years. She says that it why I can keep it off. I don't need insulin!

Answered by Dr. Mahesh Koregol (46 minutes later)

Hi, thanks for your query. I read your query and I understand your concerns. Following is my reply : 1) Goal of insulin therapy is to control high blood sugar levels. 2) Hyperglycemia in long run would lead to chronic diseases involving heart, kidneys, brain, erectile dysfunction etc... 3) The need for insulin is judged by your sugar levels, HbA1C values, age and other parameters. 4) Donot confuse insulin management with weight loss. Both are different. 5) Even while on insulin, you can achieve weight loss with optimum diabetic diet and excercise under trainer. I hope i answered your query. I will be available for the follow up query you have. Regards, Dr. Mahesh Koregol.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar