Diabetes types
Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a metabolic disease that causes high blood sugar. The hormone insulin moves sugar from the blood into your cells to be stored or used for energy. With diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it does make.
Untreated high blood sugar from diabetes can damage your nerves, eyes, kidneys, and other organs.
There are a few different types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks and destroys cells in the pancreas, where insulin is made. It’s unclear what causes this attack. About 10 percent of people with diabetes have this type.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin, and sugar builds up in your blood.
Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar is higher than normal, but it’s not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar during pregnancy. Insulin-blocking hormones produced by the placenta cause this type of diabetes.
A rare condition called diabetes insipidus is not related to diabetes mellitus, although it has a similar name. It’s a different condition in which your kidneys remove too much fluid from your body.
Each type of diabetes has unique symptoms, causes, and treatments. Learn more about how these types differ from one another.
Symptoms of diabetes
Diabetes symptoms are caused by rising blood sugar.
General symptoms
The general symptoms of diabetes include:
increased hunger
increased thirst
weight loss
frequent urination
blurry vision
extreme fatigue
sores that don’t heal
Symptoms in men
In addition to the general symptoms of diabetes, men with diabetes may have a decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction (ED), and poor muscle strength.
Symptoms in women
Women with diabetes can also have symptoms such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and dry, itchy skin.
Type 1 diabetes
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes can include:
extreme hunger
increased thirst
unintentional weight loss
frequent urination
blurry vision
tiredness
It may also result in mood changes.
Type 2 diabetes
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include:
increased hunger
increased thirst
increased urination
blurry vision
tiredness
sores that are slow to heal
It may also cause recurring infections. This is because elevated glucose levels make it harder for the body to heal.
Gestational diabetes
Most women with gestational diabetes don’t have any symptoms. The condition is often detected during a routine blood sugar test or oral glucose tolerance test that is usually performed between the 24th and 28th weeks of gestation.
In rare cases, a woman with gestational diabetes will also experience increased thirst or urination.
The bottom line
Diabetes symptoms can be so mild that they’re hard to spot at first. Learn which signs should prompt a trip to the doctor.
Causes of diabetes
Different causes are associated with each type of diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes
Doctors don’t know exactly what causes type 1 diabetes. For some reason, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Genes may play a role in some people. It’s also possible that a virus sets off the immune system attack.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes stems from a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors. Being overweight or obese increases your risk too. Carrying extra weight, especially in your belly, makes your cells more resistant to the effects of insulin on your blood sugar.
This condition runs in families. Family members share genes that make them more likely to get type 2 diabetes and to be overweight.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is the result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. The placenta produces hormones that make a pregnant woman’s cells less sensitive to the effects of insulin. This can cause high blood sugar during pregnancy.
Women who are overweight when they get pregnant or who gain too much weight during their pregnancy are more likely to get gestational diabetes.
The bottom line
Both genes and environmental factors play a role in triggering diabetes. Get more information here on the causes of diabetes.
Diabetes risk factors
Certain factors increase your risk for diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes
You’re more likely to get type 1 diabetes if you’re a child or teenager, you have a parent or sibling with the condition, or you carry certain genes that are linked to the disease.
Type 2 diabetes
Your risk for type 2 diabetes increases if you:
are overweight
are age 45 or older
have a parent or sibling with the condition
aren’t physically active
have had gestational diabetes
have prediabetes
have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high triglycerides
have African American, Hispanic or Latino American, Alaska Native, Pacific Islander, American Indian, or Asian American ancestry
Gestational diabetes
Your risk for gestational diabetes increases if you:
are overweight
are over age 25
had gestational diabetes during a past pregnancy
have given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
have a family history of type 2 diabetes
have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
The bottom line
Your family, environment, and preexisting medical conditions can all affect your odds of developing diabetes. Find out which risks you can control and which ones you can’t.
Diabetes complications
High blood sugar damages organs and tissues throughout your body. The higher your blood sugar is and the longer you live with it, the greater your risk for complications.
Complications associated with diabetes include:
heart disease, heart attack, and stroke
neuropathy
nephropathy
retinopathy and vision loss
hearing loss
foot damage such as infections and sores that don’t heal
skin conditions such as bacterial and fungal infections
depression
dementia
Gestational diabetes
Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can lead to problems that affect both the mother and baby. Complications affecting the baby can include:
premature birth
higher-than-normal weight at birth
increased risk for type 2 diabetes later in life
low blood sugar
jaundice
stillbirth
The mother can develop complications such as high blood pressure (preeclampsia) or type 2 diabetes. She may also require cesarean delivery, commonly referred to as a C-section.
The mother’s risk of gestational diabetes in future pregnancies also increases.
The bottom line
Diabetes can lead to serious medical complications, but you can manage the condition with medications and lifestyle changes. Avoid the most common diabetes complications with these helpful tips.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Looking for type 2 diabetes support?
Sign up for our newsletter to jump-start your type 2 diabetes management with patient advocate Mila. Take one simple action each day for the next 5 days.
Enter your email
Your privacy is important to us
Treatment of diabetes
Doctors treat diabetes with a few different medications. Some of these drugs are taken by mouth, while others are available as injections.
Type 1 diabetes
Insulin is the main treatment for type 1 diabetes. It replaces the hormone your body isn’t able to produce.
There are four types of insulin that are most commonly used. They’re differentiated by how quickly they start to work, and how long their effects last:
Rapid-acting insulin starts to work within 15 minutes and its effects last for 3 to 4 hours.
Short-acting insulin starts to work within 30 minutes and lasts 6 to 8 hours.
Intermediate-acting insulin starts to work within 1 to 2 hours and lasts 12 to 18 hours.
Long-acting insulin starts to work a few hours after injection and lasts 24 hours or longer.
Type 2 diabetes
Diet and exercise can help some people manage type 2 diabetes. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower your blood sugar, you’ll need to take medication.
These drugs lower your blood sugar in a variety of ways:
Types of drug How they work Example (s) Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors Slow your body’s breakdown of sugars and starchy foods Acarbose (Precose) and miglitol (Glyset)
Biguanides Reduce the amount of glucose your liver makes Metformin (Glucophage)
DPP-4 inhibitors Improve your blood sugar without making it drop too low Linagliptin (Tradjenta), saxagliptin (Onglyza), and sitagliptin (Januvia)
Glucagon-like peptides Change the way your body produces insulin Dulaglutide (Trulicity), exenatide (Byetta), and liraglutide (Victoza)
Meglitinides Stimulate your pancreas to release more insulin Nateglinide (Starlix) and repaglinide (Prandin)
SGLT2 inhibitors Release more glucose into the urine Canagliflozin (Invokana) and dapagliflozin (Farxiga)
Sulfonylureas Stimulate your pancreas to release more insulin Glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase), glipizide (Glucotrol), and glimepiride (Amaryl)
Thiazolidinediones Help insulin work better Pioglitazone (Actos) and rosiglitazone (Avandia)
You may need to take more than one of these drugs. Some people with type 2 diabetes also take insulin.
Gestational diabetes
You’ll need to monitor your blood sugar level several times a day during pregnancy. If it’s high, dietary changes and exercise may or may not be enough to bring it down.
According to the Mayo Clinic, about 10 to 20 percent of women with gestational diabetes will need insulin to lower their blood sugar. Insulin is safe for the growing baby.
The bottom line
The drug or combination of drugs that your doctor prescribes will depend on the type of diabetes you have — and its cause. Check out this list of the various medications that are available to treat diabetes.
Diabetes and diet
Healthy eating is a central part of managing diabetes. In some cases, changing your diet may be enough to control the disease.
Type 1 diabetes
Your blood sugar level rises or falls based on the types of foods you eat. Starchy or sugary foods make blood sugar levels rise rapidly. Protein and fat cause more gradual increases.
Your medical team may recommend that you limit the amount of carbohydrates you eat each day. You’ll also need to balance your carb intake with your insulin doses.
Work with a dietitian who can help you design a diabetes meal plan. Getting the right balance of protein, fat, and carbs can help you control your blood sugar. Check out this guide to starting a type 1 diabetes diet.
Type 2 diabetes
Eating the right types of foods can both control your blood sugar and help you lose any excess weight.
Carb counting is an important part of eating for type 2 diabetes. A dietitian can help you figure out how many grams of carbohydrates to eat at each meal.
In order to keep your blood sugar levels steady, try to eat small meals throughout the day. Emphasize healthy foods such as:
fruits
vegetables
whole grains
lean protein such as poultry and fish
healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts
Certain other foods can undermine efforts to keep your blood sugar in control.Discover the foods you should avoid if you have diabetes.
Gestational diabetes
Eating a well-balanced diet is important for both you and your baby during these nine months. Making the right food choices can also help you avoid diabetes medications.
Watch your portion sizes, and limit sugary or salty foods. Although you need some sugar to feed your growing baby, you should avoid eating too much.
Consider making an eating plan with the help of a dietitian or nutritionist. They’ll ensure that your diet has the right mix of macronutrients. Go here for other do’s and don’ts for healthy eating with gestational diabetes.
Diabetes diagnosis
Anyone who has symptoms of diabetes or is at risk for the disease should be tested. Women are routinely tested for gestational diabetes during their second or third trimesters of pregnancy.
Doctors use these blood tests to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes:
The fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test measures your blood sugar after you’ve fasted for 8 hours.
The A1C test provides a snapshot of your blood sugar levels over the previous 3 months.
To diagnose gestational diabetes, your doctor will test your blood sugar levels between the 24th and 28th weeks of your pregnancy.
During the glucose challenge test, your blood sugar is checked an hour after you drink a sugary liquid.
During the 3 hour glucose tolerance test, your blood sugar is checked after you fast overnight and then drink a sugary liquid.
The earlier you get diagnosed with diabetes, the sooner you can start treatment. Find out whether you should get tested, and get more information on tests your doctor might perform.
If you don’t already have a primary care specialist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Get our twice weekly Diabetes email
To help you stay on top of diabetes, we’ll send you tips on eating wisely, news on breakthroughs, and more.
Enter your email
Also sign up for our popular Heart Health newsletter
Your privacy is important to us
Diabetes prevention
Type 1 diabetes isn’t preventable because it’s caused by a problem with the immune system. Some causes of type 2 diabetes, such as your genes or age, aren’t under your control either.
Yet many other diabetes risk factors are controllable. Most diabetes prevention strategies involve making simple adjustments to your diet and fitness routine.
If you’ve been diagnosed with prediabetes, here are a few things you can do to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes:
Get at least 150 minutes per week of aerobic exercise, such as walking or cycling.
Cut saturated and trans fats, along with refined carbohydrates, out of your diet.
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Eat smaller portions.
Try to lose 7 percent Trusted Source of your body weight if you’re overweight or obese.
These aren’t the only ways to prevent diabetes. Discover more strategies that may help you avoid this chronic disease.
Diabetes in pregnancy
Women who’ve never had diabetes can suddenly develop gestational diabetes in pregnancy. Hormones produced by the placenta can make your body more resistant to the effects of insulin.
Some women who had diabetes before they conceived carry it with them into pregnancy. This is called pre-gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes should go away after you deliver, but it does significantly increase your risk for getting diabetes later.
About half of women with gestational diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within 5 to 10 years of delivery, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
Having diabetes during your pregnancy can also lead to complications for your newborn, such as jaundice or breathing problems.
If you’re diagnosed with pre-gestational or gestational diabetes, you’ll need special monitoring to prevent complications. Find out more about the effect of diabetes on pregnancy.
Diabetes in children
Children can get both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Controlling blood sugar is especially important in young people, because the disease can damage important organs such as the heart and kidneys.
Type 1 diabetes
The autoimmune form of diabetes often starts in childhood. One of the main symptoms is increased urination. Kids with type 1 diabetes may start wetting the bed after they’ve been toilet trained.
Extreme thirst, fatigue, and hunger are also signs of the condition. It’s important that children with type 1 diabetes get treated right away. The disease can cause high blood sugar and dehydration, which can be medical emergencies.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes used to be called “juvenile diabetes” because type 2 was so rare in children. Now that more children are overweight or obese, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in this age group.
About 40 percent of children with type 2 diabetes don’t have symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. The disease is often diagnosed during a physical exam.
Untreated type 2 diabetes can cause lifelong complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. Healthy eating and exercise can help your child manage their blood sugar and prevent these problems.
Type 2 diabetes is more prevalent than ever in young people. Learn how to spot the signs so you can report them to your child’s doctor.
Takeaway
Some types of diabetes — like type 1 — are caused by factors that are out of your control. Others — like type 2 — can be prevented with better food choices, increased activity, and weight loss.
Discuss potential diabetes risks with your doctor. If you’re at risk, have your blood sugar tested and follow your doctor’s advice for managing your blood sugar.
Last medically reviewed on October 4, 2018
24 sourcescollapsed
Medically reviewed by Marina Basina, M.D. — Written by Stephanie Watson — Updated on February 26, 2020
10 Ways to Treat Low Blood Sugar with Real Food
4 Easy Superfood Recipes to Fight Type 2 Diabetes
6 Brownie Recipes for People with Diabetes
5 Diabetes-Friendly — and Delicious — Waffle Recipes
10 Delicious Diabetic-Friendly Smoothies
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No
Is Diabetes More Prevalent Among African Americans?
Diabetes and race
Type 1 vs. type 2
Diabetes and Black Americans
Diagnosis
Prevention
Resources
Bottom line
Willie B. Thomas/Getty Images
According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes affects more than 34 millionTrusted Source children, teens, and adults in the United States.
Although diabetes affects people of all races and ethnicities, it is more prevalent in certain racial and ethnic groups. In fact, non-Hispanic African Americans are 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic white Americans.
In this article, we’ll discuss why diabetes is more prevalent in Black Americans, how to lower your risk of developing diabetes, and resources for support if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes.
Facts about diabetes and race
While diabetes can affect people within any racial or ethnic group, it disproportionately affects people of certain racial or ethnic backgrounds.
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the prevalence of diabetes in non-Hispanic Blacks is 11.7 percent, versus only 7.5 percent in non-Hispanic whites.
Asian Americans are slightly more affected by diabetes than white Americans, with a prevalence of 9.2 percent.
Hispanics and American Indians/Alaskan Natives have the highest rates of diabetes, at 12.5 percent and 14.7 percent, respectively.
Among non-Hispanic Black Americans in 2018, the prevalence of diabetes was 13.4 percent in Black men versus 12.7 percent in Black women, according to statistics from the Office of Minority Health.
In addition to having higher rates of diabetes, Black Americans are also more likely to experience complications from diabetes.
For example, rates of diabetic retinopathy are 46 percent higher in African Americans than non-Hispanic whites.
End stage renal disease due to diabetes is also 2.6 times more prevalent in Black Americans than non-Hispanic white Americans.
Type 1 vs. types 2 diabetes
Diabetes is an umbrella term for multiple conditions that cause dysfunction in the body’s ability to metabolize glucose, secrete insulin, or both.
When you take in glucose (sugar) from the foods you eat, you need a hormone called insulin. Insulin is released by beta cells from your pancreas. When insulin reaches the cells in your body, it attaches to receptors that help the cells identify and take in glucose from your bloodstream.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that most commonly develops in childhood. With type 1 diabetes, the body attacks the beta cells of the pancreas, limiting their ability to produce insulin. Without enough insulin, the cells cannot take in glucose, which, in turn, causes high blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes is a type of chronic condition that often starts in adulthood. With type 2 diabetes, it becomes harder for your body to recognize insulin, a condition called insulin resistance. Without an adequate insulin response, it becomes harder for your cells to take up glucose, and as a result, blood sugar levels rise.
While type 1 diabetes is solely caused by a lack of insulin, type 2 diabetes can be caused by both a sensitivity to insulin and a lack of insulin.
However, insulin deficiency in type 2 diabetes is not autoimmune. Instead, it happens because the pancreas cannot keep up with the increased demand for insulin due to insulin resistance.
ADVERTISEMENT
Questions about Symptoms? Video Chat with a Doctor Today
Get answers and treatment in minutes without leaving home — anytime. Consult with a U.S. board-certified doctor via high-quality video. Insurance accepted.
Why is type 2 diabetes more common in Black Americans?
Older research from 2005 has suggested that an increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes in African Americans may be due to both genetic and environmental factors. Let’s take a closer look at these factors.
Genetic factors
In the past, scientists proposed the “thrifty gene” as a theory for the increased rates of diabetes in Black Americans. According to this theory, previous populations who were exposed to periods of famine were thought to be more likely to efficiently store fat, especially in periods of plenty.
In modern America, according to this theory, it would equate to an increase in overall body weight, and thus an increase in diabetes.
However, given the fact that African Americans are an extremely diverse population, especially genetically, this theory doesn’t necessarily hold up.
Instead, another theory suggests that a higher prevalence of G6PD deficiency in Black males, paired with the typical “Western diet“ may contribute to a higher diabetes risk.
Health factors
Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors Trusted Source for the development of type 2 diabetes. Black Americans, especially Black women, statistically have higher rates of obesity than white Americans. Research Trusted Source has shown Black Americans face inequities, such as lower socioeconomic status and limited access to nutritious food, that may contribute to these higher rates of obesity.
When paired with lower physical activity levels, particularly in Black women and adolescent girls, the risk of diabetes is greatly increased.
Research has also suggested that insulin resistance is more prevalent in Black Americans, especially in Black adolescents. Since insulin resistance is tied to the development of type 2 diabetes, this may explain the increased risk of this condition.
Still, there is no single risk factor for diabetes, including in Black Americans.
Social factors
Socioeconomic factors have an impact on healthcare outcomes and the risk of developing certain health conditions.
In one 2014 study Trusted Source, researchers investigated the link between poverty and diabetes prevalence. According to this study, Black Americans and poor white Americans have higher rates of diabetes than non-poor white Americans.
In addition, under-resourced socioeconomic groups experience higher levels of stress, which is believed to increase diabetes risk in people who are predisposed to the disease.
Multiple studies have shown associations between both acute stress and long-term stress and the development of diabetes. However, more research is still needed.
How do you know if you have diabetes?
Regular checkups are one of the best ways to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. During these checkups, there are several tests your healthcare professional can use to check your blood sugar levels and determine your risk of developing diabetes.
A fasting blood glucose test measures your blood sugar levels after an 8 to 12 hour fast, with results indicating the following:
Fasting blood glucose levels
Normal range. Less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
Indicates prediabetes. Between 100–125 mg/dL.
Indicates diabetes. Higher than 125 mg/dL on two occasions.
An oral glucose tolerance test measures your blood sugar levels over the course of 2 hours after drinking a sugary drink, with results indicating the following:
Oral glucose tolerance test levels
Normal range. Less than 140 mg/dL.
Indicates prediabetes. Between 140–199 mg/dL.
Indicates diabetes. Higher than 200 mg/dL.
An A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels from the past 2 to 3 months, with results indicating the following:
A1C test results
Normal range. Less than 5.7 percent.
Indicates prediabetes. Between 5.7 and 6.4 percent.
Indicates diabetes. Higher than 6.4 percent.
If your blood sugar levels are within the prediabetes range, your doctor will likely recommend making certain lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
If your blood sugar levels indicate you have diabetes, your doctor will work with you to find the right plan to manage your diabetes.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Get our twice weekly Diabetes email
To help you stay on top of diabetes, we’ll send you tips on eating wisely, news on breakthroughs, and more.
Enter your email
Also sign up for our popular Heart Health newsletter
Your privacy is important to us
What can you do to lower your risk?
Even if you’re at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, there are steps you can take to lower your riskTrusted Source.
According to the Dabetes Prevention Program study, people who kept up certain lifestyle changes lowered their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58 percentTrusted Source over 3 years. This applied across all racial and ethnic groups.
Some of these changes include:
Weight management. Although weight isn’t the sole indicator of health status, being overweight can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you carry excess weight, even losing 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can reduce your risk of diabetes.
Dietary changes. Eating a balanced, well-rounded diet can help lower your risk of developing diabetes. Filling your plate with whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help with weight and blood sugar management. Try to avoid high fat, high calorie foods.
Regular exercise. Exercising regularly can help reduce the risk of many chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes. Experts recommend getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week. You can break this down into 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 days each week, or 22 minutes of exercise each day.
Stress management. Research suggests that chronic stress can have a negative impact on health and increase the risk of many health conditions. Activities like mindfulness, meditation, and gentle exercise are just a few ways to reduce your stress, both short-term and long-term.
Regular checkups. If you’re at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it’s important to schedule regular checkups with a doctor. Your doctor can work with you to identify lifestyle changes that may help further reduce your risk.
Resources and support
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, there are resources available to help you learn more about how to manage your blood sugar and live with your condition. The following resources may be especially helpful.
Diabetes resources
The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists’ Tools and Resources page provides information on resources for accessibility, peer support, and more.
The Alliance to Reduce Disparities in Diabetes’ Resources for African Americans with Diabetes page shares information on the different diabetes resources available online.
The Office of Minority Health’s OMH Resource Center provides information on health conditions in minority populations, for both patients and healthcare professionals.
The bottom line
Diabetes is more prevalent in certain racial and ethnic groups, including Indigenous, Hispanic, and Black Americans. A variety of genetic, health, and social factors contribute to higher diabetes rates in Black Americans.
Research suggests that the biggest impact comes from a higher rate of obesity among Black men and women.
If you’re concerned about your risk of developing diabetes, reach out to a healthcare professional to discuss your concerns and explore the steps you can take to reduce your risk.
Last medically reviewed on October 29, 2021
14 sourcescollapsed
Medically reviewed by Jenneh Rishe, RN — Written by Eleesha Lockett, MS on October 29, 2021
10 Ways to Treat Low Blood Sugar with Real Food
4 Easy Superfood Recipes to Fight Type 2 Diabetes
6 Brownie Recipes for People with Diabetes
5 Diabetes-friendly — and Delicious — Waffle Recipes
10 Delicious Diabetic-Friendly Smoothies
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No
How Long Does It Take for NPH Insulin to Peak?
About
Peak time
Side effects
Safety tips
Summary
Johner Images/Getty Images
Insulin is a hormone produced by your pancreas that helps shuttles sugar from your blood to the tissues in your body. People with type 1 diabetes and advanced type 2 diabetes need to take insulin to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin (named after the scientist Hans Christian Hagedorn who invented it) peaks in about 6 to 8 hours, with a duration of up to 12 hours. This type of insulin is generally used to help regulate blood sugar levels between meals and overnight.
This article will take a closer look at how NPH differs from other types of insulin, how long it takes to reach peak effect, and the potential side effects.
What is NPH insulin?
Historically, insulin was derived from cows or pigs. But now, animal insulin isn’t as common, thanks to improved technology.
NPH insulin is made from synthetic insulin that’s grown in bacteria or yeastsTrusted Source in a lab. Zinc and a protein extracted from fish (called protamine) are added to slow its absorption in the body.
NPH insulin is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source and used to treat type 1 and advanced type 2 diabetes in children and adults. It’s the most common type of basal insulin, which is insulin used to keep blood sugar levels constant between meals and overnight.
In the United States, NPH insulin is sold under the brand names Humulin N and Novolin N.
NPH insulin is considered intermediate-acting insulin because it lasts for about half a day. It takes longer to act than the natural insulin in your body. NPH is often mixed with regular or rapid-acting insulin to combine the benefits.
NPH insulin is administered subcutaneously into the layer of fat under your skin using a pen or syringe into your abdomen, arms, or thigh.
Many types of insulin can treat diabetes, and your doctor can help you decide which type is best for you.
Types of insulin
Insulin is typically divided into one of four types depending on how long it takes to act:
Rapid-acting. Starts to act within 15 minutes. Peaks in about 1 hour. Usually taken right before a meal.
Regular or short-acting. Onset is around 30 minutes. Peaks in about 2 to 3 hours. Usually taken about 30 to 60 minutes before a meal.
Intermediate-acting. Starts to act in 1 to 2 hours. Peak time is 6 to 8 hours. Used to keep blood sugar levels constant for about half a day or overnight.
Long-acting or ultra-long acting. Starts to act within 1 to 2 hours. Does not peak, but duration is typically 24 to 36 hours.
How long does NPH insulin take to peak?
NPH insulin generally acts within 1 to 3 hours and has a peak time of about 6 to 8 hours.
Peak time is the period when a medication has its strongest effect. It varies based on the type and brand of insulin you use. It’s essential to know the peak time of your insulin so that you can predict how much and when you should eat to keep your blood sugar constant.
NPH insulin can last for up to 12 hours and is typically injected once or twice per day. It can last longer than 12 hours in people with certain medical conditions like kidney failure.
When you inject NPH insulin into the subcutaneous layer of your skin, the insulin spreads through your fat tissue and connective tissue until it reaches small blood vessels called capillaries. Various factors can affect how long it takes for the insulin to reach your bloodstream and start acting. These include:
injection depth
thickness of your fat tissue
temperature of your fat tissue
your level of activity and exercise
the part of your body injected
whether you’re a smoker
body position during the injection
ADVERTISEMENT
Questions about Symptoms? Video Chat with a Doctor Today
Get answers and treatment in minutes without leaving home — anytime. Consult with a U.S. board-certified doctor via high-quality video. Insurance accepted.
Does NPH insulin have any side effects?
All types of insulin come with a risk of side effects. These include:
low blood sugar
allergic reaction or hypersensitivity
injection site reaction
weight gain
water retention
NPH insulin has a slightly higher risk of causing low blood sugarTrusted Source than other types of insulin. Severe low blood sugar can cause symptoms like seizures, loss of consciousness, or death.
Mild cases of hypoglycemia can cause symptoms like:
sweating
dizziness
headache
shakiness
weakness
hunger
nausea
blurred vision
fast heart rate
impaired concentration and reaction time
People with kidney or liver conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe low blood sugar. It’s important to talk with your doctor if you develop side effects so that your doctor can help you adjust your insulin dose.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Get our twice weekly Diabetes email
To help you stay on top of diabetes, we’ll send you tips on eating wisely, news on breakthroughs, and more.
Enter your email
Also sign up for our popular Heart Health newsletter
Your privacy is important to us
How to use NPH insulin safely
Before taking NPH insulin, it’s important to talk with your doctor about the pros and cons of this type of insulin and to get clear instructions on:
when you need to use it
how often you need to take it
how much you need to take each time
how to administer it
where to inject it
To ensure that you’re administering NPH insulin safely and effectively, it’s also essential to take the following steps:
Tell your doctor about any known allergies before starting insulin therapy.
Provide your doctor with information on all the medications and supplements you’re taking before starting insulin therapy.
Let your doctor know if you start taking a new medication or supplement.
Alert your doctor if you develop health issues that may affect insulin absorption. This includes hormonal changes, diarrhea, vomiting, or conditions that delay stomach emptying.
Wash your hands with soap and water before injecting yourself with insulin.
Confirm that you have the correct type and strength of insulin prescribed to you by your doctor before administering it.
Check that your insulin isn’t expired.
Carefully follow the instructions on the insulin label.
If your insulin is cloudy, mix it by gently rolling it between your fingers.
Avoid using insulin if it looks unusual. Instead, contact your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
It’s critical to never share insulin syringes, pens, or pumps with other people due to the risk of spreading blood diseases like HIV and hepatitis.
The bottom line
NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that helps keep your blood sugar stable between meals or overnight. It generally starts to act within 1 to 3 hours and has a peak time of about 6 to 8 hours.
NPH insulin is FDA-approved to treat adults or children with type 1 or advanced type 2 diabetes and is often combined with quicker-acting types of insulin.
If you have diabetes, it’s essential to talk with your doctor about the best type of insulin for you. There are many types of insulin, but factors like the severity of your diabetes, other health conditions, and your lifestyle habits can influence which type of insulin is best for you.
Medically reviewed by Michelle L. Griffith, MD — Written by Daniel Yetman on October 28, 2021
10 Ways to Treat Low Blood Sugar with Real Food
4 Easy Superfood Recipes to Fight Type 2 Diabetes
6 Brownie Recipes for People with Diabetes
5 Diabetes-Friendly — and Delicious — Waffle Recipes
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No
What to Know About Human Insulin and How It Works
Definition
How it’s used
Pros
Cons
Suitability
Bottom line
Insulin is a hormone that helps shuttle sugar from your blood into the cells in your body. People with type 1 diabetes or advanced type 2 diabetes need to administer insulin to keep their blood sugar in a healthy range.
Traditionally, insulin came from cows and pigs, but in recent years human insulin has become the more popular option. Human insulin is a type of synthetic insulin made in a laboratory that mimics the insulin your body makes.
In this article we’ll look at how human insulin differs from other types of insulin, how it’s used, and pros and cons.
What is human insulin?
Insulin is a hormone produced by beta cells in your pancreas. The purpose of this hormone is to help regulate your blood sugar levels by moving sugar (glucose) from your blood into the cells of your body.
When you eat carbohydrates, your digestive system breaks it down and turns it into glucose. Glucose enters your blood through your small intestines.
The cells in your body need glucose for energy. To get glucose from your blood into your cells, your pancreas produces insulin, which sends signals to the cells in your body to absorb the sugar in your blood.
People with type 1 diabetes don’t produce enough insulin and, as a result, need to administer insulin medications to help regulate their blood sugar.
In type 2 diabetes, the cells in your body don’t respond well to insulin and, in later stages, the pancreas may not produce enough insulin. People with advanced type 2 diabetes may also need to take insulin medication to control their blood sugar.
High levels of glucose in your blood can damage your blood vessels and organs.
Human insulin and insulin analogs
Until the 1980sTrusted Source, people with diabetes primarily received animal insulin from cows or pigs. Nowadays, most people use insulin that’s engineered in a laboratory. There are two types of laboratory-made insulinTrusted Source:
human insulin
insulin analogs
Human insulin is created by growing insulin proteins inside E. coli bacteria. Human insulin was prepared for the first time by David Goeddel and his colleges in 1978Trusted Source.
Human insulin is sold under a variety of brand names, including:
Actraphane
Actrapid
Humulin
Humulin N
Humulin R
Insulatard
Entuzity
Novolin
Novolin N
Novolin R
Afrezza
Insuman
Myxredlin
Human insulin is available in two forms:
a regular or short-acting form
an intermediate-acting form called neural protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin.
Regular human insulin takes action within 15 to 30 minutesTrusted Source and peaks in 1 to 3 hours. The more you take, the quicker it starts working.
A fish protein called protamine or zinc is added to NPH insulin to slow its absorption. NPH insulin takes effect about 2 hours after injection and reaches its maximum effect after about 4 to 6 hours.
Nowadays, insulin analogs are also used to treat diabetes. Insulin analogs are made in the same way as human insulin but are genetically altered to change the way they act in your body.
Insulin analogs have a different chemical structure and lower your blood sugar more quicklyTrusted Source once insulin is injected into your body.
How’s it used?
Human insulin is designed to replace your body’s natural insulin production. It’s formulated as a liquid or a suspension of solids in a liquid to be injected under your skin, usually several times per day.
Insulin is most commonly administered through:
syringes
insulin pens
insulin pumps
Pens and syringes are both injected under your skin with a small needle. The needle in pens tends to be smaller than the needle in syringes. Some pens use cartridges that you insert into the pen manually while others are prefilled and thrown away when empty.
Insulin pumps deliver insulin through a tube placed into the fatty layer under your skin, usually around your stomach or the back of your upper arm.
Never reuse syringes, needles, or pens. It’s also important not to share them with other people. Doing so can increase your risk of contracting or transmitting a blood-borne illness such as hepatitis or HIV.
ADVERTISEMENT
Questions about Symptoms? Video Chat with a Doctor Today
Get answers and treatment in minutes without leaving home — anytime. Consult with a U.S. board-certified doctor via high-quality video. Insurance accepted.
What are the advantages of human insulin?
The primary benefit of regular human insulin over insulin analogs is the cost. Human insulin tends to be cheaperTrusted Source than insulin analogs, and there’s still debateTrusted Source on whether insulin analogs offer significant benefits.
According to an article published in the American Journal of Medicine, insulin prices tripled from 2001 to 2012 and doubled between 2012 to 2016.
The World Health Organization’s guidelinesTrusted Source recommend human insulin products for people with type 1 diabetes who need a cost-effective insulin option.
A 2019 study found an insignificant difference in the A1C test results between people who switched to human insulin or continued taking insulin analogs.
An A1C test measures average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. The researchers found better adherence in the human insulin group due to the lower cost.
What are the disadvantages of human insulin?
In high concentrations, human and animal insulin tends to clump when injected into the skin. This clumping can cause slow and sporadic absorption. In comparison, insulin analogs tend to clump less and are absorbed more predictably.
Human insulin tends to take effect slower than insulin analogs. Insulin analogs can start acting in as little as 5 to 10 minutesTrusted Source after injection. Regular human insulin takes about 15 to 30 minutesTrusted Source to start working after being injected.
A group of insulin analogs called long-acting insulin analogs or basal insulins can act for up to 24 hoursTrusted Source and require fewer injections than human insulin.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Get our twice weekly Diabetes email
To help you stay on top of diabetes, we’ll send you tips on eating wisely, news on breakthroughs, and more.
Enter your email
Also sign up for our popular Heart Health newsletter
Your privacy is important to us
Is human insulin right for you?
It’s important to work closely with your doctor to figure out which type of insulin is right for you. Your insulin regimen needs to be tailored to your specific lifestyle and overall health in order to keep your blood sugar levels regulated as effectively as possible.
It’s common for your doctor to recommend changes to your insulin dose as they learn what works well for you.
When developing your insulin regimen, some questions you may want to ask your doctor are:
Which type of insulin will best help me manage my diabetes?
How much insulin should I take and at what time of day?
How should I administer my insulin?
What are my target blood sugar levels?
What side effects are possible?
What should I do if I have side effects?
If your insulin levels are mismatched to your needs, you’re at risk of developing overly high or low blood sugar that has the potential to be life-threatening.
The bottom line
Human insulin is synthetically made in a lab using E. coli bacteria. It replicates the insulin naturally found in your body. Until the commercial availability of human insulin in the late 1900s, animal-derived insulin was used to help people manage diabetes.
Insulin analogs, a subgroup of human insulin, are also used to treat diabetes, but are genetically altered to change the way they act in your body. Insulin analogs tend to take effect more quickly than human insulin, but are often more expensive.
Different people have different needs when it comes to insulin. It’s important to work with your doctor to develop an insulin regimen that matches your individual lifestyle and requirements.
Last medically reviewed on October 27, 2021
Medically reviewed by Michelle L. Griffith, MD — Written by Daniel Yetman on October 27, 2021
10 Ways to Treat Low Blood Sugar with Real Food
4 Easy Superfood Recipes to Fight Type 2 Diabetes
6 Brownie Recipes for People with Diabetes
5 Diabetes-Friendly — and Delicious — Waffle Recipes
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No
How Do Insulin Pumps Work?
Function
Parts of a pump
Types
Pros
Cons
How to use
Summary
AzmanJaka/Getty Images
An insulin pump is a small, wearable device that delivers insulin into your body. It’s an alternative to frequent insulin injections, and some pumps can monitor your blood sugar levels, too.
A 2019 review estimated that around 350,000 people use insulin pumps in the United States. About 90 percent of insulin pump users have type 1 diabetes and the remaining 10 percent have type 2 diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes are dependent on insulin and must inject it to survive.
This article will explain how insulin pumps work, and will also look at the advantages and drawbacks of these devices.
What does an insulin pump do?
An insulin pump is intended to act like a human pancreas outside the body. Your pancreas releases insulin in response to changes in your blood sugar level. But when you have diabetes, your body doesn’t release insulin or use it properly. As a result, you have to find another way to get the insulin you need.
Insulin pumps work by delivering a basal, or set, rate of insulin through a tube called a cannula. The cannula is inserted just under the top layer of your skin. Your doctor will work with you to determine the amount of insulin you need each day.
Insulin pumps can also deliver an insulin bolus. This is an extra dose of insulin besides your basal rate. A pump won’t automatically give you this extra dose of insulin, though. You need to tell the pump to administer the bolus dose.
Some insulin pumps will also monitor your blood sugar level. The pump will tell you in real time what your blood sugar is, so you can give yourself insulin.
Insulin pumps give you insulin according to how you program them. They don’t adjust on their own to your changing insulin levels.
They require special training on your part to make sure you can use them safely and effectively.
What do they consist of?
An insulin pump is usually about the size of a deck of cards, although the size can vary depending on the model. You wear the pump outside your body.
The pump usually consists of:
a display screen
a place for an insulin container
a thin cannula, or tube, that attaches to your body
You can insert the cannula in a variety of places on your body. Some of the most common places include your stomach, thigh, or buttocks.
The cannula acts as the go-between from the pump to your skin. You place the little end of the cannula in the subcutaneous tissue below your skin. You’ll usually cover this end with a small, clear or flesh-colored bandage, so it stays in place and doesn’t become dislodged.
Innovations in pump technology mean that some pumps have extra features, such as:
hypoglycemia suspension (will cut off when your blood sugar gets too low)
touch screens
waterproofing, to a certain depth
wireless capability
Besides the more traditional pumps, insulin patch pumps are also available. These are small pumps that adhere directly to your skin. Instead of being attached to a pump, these patches have a wireless mechanism. The mechanism sends signals for the patch to release insulin directly into your body.
The right pump for you depends on what type of diabetes you have, your insurance status, and your age. Some pumps are not approved for children.
ADVERTISEMENT
Questions about Symptoms? Video Chat with a Doctor Today
Get answers and treatment in minutes without leaving home — anytime. Consult with a U.S. board-certified doctor via high-quality video. Insurance accepted.
Types of insulin pumps
Insulin pump availability can vary depending on a variety of factors. Also, insulin pump manufacturers may introduce new pumps or enhanced models, and phase out older models.
Additionally, some pumps may be recommended for certain ages or types of diabetes. It’s important to talk with your doctor about choosing a pump. This can ensure your pump of choice is the right option for you, your insulin needs, and your lifestyle.
Examples of commonly used insulin pumps include:
Medtronic. Medtronic offers the Minimed 770G system (approved for type 1 diabetes for ages 2 and older) and the Minimed 630G system (approved for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes for ages 14 and older).
Omnipod. The Omnipod DASH system is a Bluetooth-enabled patch-based system that provides 3 days of non-stop insulin management. Children and adults can use the Omnipod for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Tandem. Tandem makes the t:slim X2 insulin pump. This pump is intended for people with type 1 diabetes who are ages 6 and older.
What are the advantages of using an insulin pump?
An insulin pump can be a convenient way of managing your blood sugar and keeping your diabetes well controlled. Let’s look at some of the key advantages.
Pros
You don’t need to give yourself multiple insulin injections every day.
You can get help with determining bolus doses.
It’s helpful for administering bolus doses multiple times a day.
It allows for more precise insulin doses compared to an insulin pen.
Some types of pumps can monitor your blood sugar as well as administer insulin.
An insulin pump may allow for a more flexible lifestyle compared to multiple daily injections.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Get our twice weekly Diabetes email
To help you stay on top of diabetes, we’ll send you tips on eating wisely, news on breakthroughs, and more.
Enter your email
Also sign up for our popular Heart Health newsletter
Your privacy is important to us
What are the drawbacks?
Using an insulin pump isn’t always the best option for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at some of the drawbacks of this device.
Cons
It takes training and practice to learn how to use an insulin pump properly. For this reason, it may not be the best option for younger children.
It may be more expensive than daily insulin injections.
You need to have a backup method in case the pump malfunctions.
Depending on the type of insulin pump you use, it can be awkward to wear.
If your pump doesn’t have a feature that monitors your blood sugar, you’ll need to check your blood sugar levels yourself.
An insulin pump and daily injections are both effective methods of controlling your blood sugar levels. What’s most important is that you monitor your blood sugar carefully and follow your doctor’s instructions for managing your diabetes.
How to use an insulin pump
It’s very important that you spend time with a diabetes educator or your doctor to learn how to use your insulin pump properly.
Before you start using an insulin pump, it’s important that you know how to:
attach the infusion set to your body
change the insulin in your pump
troubleshoot problems with your device
change the infusion set
manage the different features that the pump has
Most pumps contain a bolus dose calculator. This helps you calculate how much extra insulin you may need based on your daily carbohydrate intake.
Some pumps also offer an “extended bolus” option. This allows you to administer the dose over 2 to 3 hours. This option can help prevent hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia is a potentially dangerous condition.
You must change the insulin in the pump according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, rapid-acting insulin formulations such as lispro and aspart must be replaced every 144 hours or every 6 days, according to a 2019 study. Glulisine, on the other hand, should be replaced every 48 hours.
Remember that insulin pumps cannot do everything to manage your diabetes. You play the most important role in managing your care, including:
checking your blood sugar regularly
managing your diet
telling your pump what insulin dose to administer
The bottom line
An insulin pump is an alternative to giving yourself multiple daily insulin injections. This device is primarily used by people with type 1 diabetes, but about 10 percent of users have type 2 diabetes.
Some insulin pumps are connected to your body by a thin tube that delivers insulin under your skin, while others are like a patch that delivers insulin through your skin. Some pumps can monitor your blood sugar levels, too.
If you don’t want to give yourself daily insulin injections, an insulin pump may be a good option for you. However, it takes a lot of practice to use one correctly. That’s why it’s important to work closely with your doctor or a diabetes educator to understand whether an insulin pump is right for you.
Last medically reviewed on October 14, 2021
3 sourcescollapsed
Medically reviewed by Stella Bard, MD — Written by Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA on October 14, 2021
10 Ways to Treat Low Blood Sugar with Real Food
4 Easy Superfood Recipes to Fight Type 2 Diabetes
6 Brownie Recipes for People with Diabetes
5 Diabetes-Friendly — and Delicious — Waffle Recipes
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No
NUTRITION
Can People with Diabetes Eat Pizza?
Is pizza safe?
Best types
Healthy tips
Nutritious recipes
Bottom line
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
If you have diabetes, you’ve probably heard that you should avoid or reduce your consumption of certain foods and drinks, including sugary beverages, refined grains, and candy.
Of course, it’s best for everyone, not just those with diabetes, to follow a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet that contains plenty of protein, healthy fat, and fiber.
That said, on occasion, people with diabetes can enjoy foods that are often viewed as “unhealthy,” including pizza.
This article explains how people with diabetes can safely eat pizza and provides tips for healthy eating habits for those with diabetes.
John Puah/Stocksy United
Is pizza safe for people with diabetes?
The short answer to this question is yes, people with diabetes can enjoy all types of pizza.
However, it’s a good idea for all people, not just those with diabetes, to limit their intake of pizza. Here’s why.
High in refined and total carbs
Regardless of whether you have diabetes, healthcare professionals generally recommend limiting your intake of refined carbs, including the white flour used to make pizza crust.
But people with blood sugar management issues, such as those with diabetes, need to be particularly mindful of the amounts of refined and total carbs they’re consuming.
Refined grains are stripped of certain nutrients like protein and fiber, and they have a greater effect on blood sugar levels.
On the other hand, whole, unrefined grains or other nutrient-dense carb sources, such as fiber-rich fruits and starchy vegetables, tend to affect blood sugar levels less (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
What’s more, research has linked diets high in refined carbs and ultra-processed foods like frozen pizzas with the following (2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source):
an increased risk of type 2 diabetes
higher fasting blood sugar levels
higher hemoglobin A1c — a marker of long-term blood sugar management
In general, if you have diabetes, it’s a good idea to monitor your total carb intake, including the types of carbs you’re consuming. This is because carbs are the macronutrient that has the greatest effect on your blood sugar levels.
Depending on the type, a 100-gram slice of cheese pizza can pack around 30 grams, or two servings, of carbs, while providing a relatively small amount of protein and minimal fiber (5Trusted Source).
Keep in mind that the carb content of a pizza slice can be much higher depending on the thickness of the crust, the size of the slice, and the toppings.
So, if you were to eat two slices of cheese pizza, you could be consuming around four servings, or 60 grams, of carbs, which is a significant amount.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Daily Value (DV) for carbs for someone who eats 2,000 calories per day is 275 grams (6Trusted Source).
High in sodium
Pizza can be very high in sodium, which can be problematic for some people, especially those with diabetes.
For example, two slices (200 grams) of Pizza Hut cheese pizza contain 1,248 mg of sodium, which is more than 50% of the recommended daily sodium limit of 2,300 mg (5Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).
This is a concern because people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have high blood pressure, which can be affected by a high salt intake (8Trusted Source).
High in saturated fat
The same two slices (200 grams) of Pizza Hut cheese pizza deliver 10 grams of saturated fat, or half of the current DV (5Trusted Source, 9).
A diet high in saturated fat may also worsen diabetes by contributing to insulin resistance, which negatively affects blood sugar management (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).
However, this doesn’t mean that people with diabetes have to avoid pizza altogether.
It simply means you should consider moderating your intake of pizza, as well as other foods rich in refined carbs, and that the majority of your diet should comprise whole, nutrient-dense foods.
SUMMARY
People with diabetes don’t have to avoid pizza. However, it’s a good idea to moderate your pizza intake as part of a nutrient-dense, balanced diet.
ADVERTISEMENT
Questions about Symptoms? Video Chat with a Doctor Today
Get answers and treatment in minutes without leaving home — anytime. Consult with a U.S. board-certified doctor via high-quality video. Insurance accepted.
What are the best types of pizza for people with diabetes?
To be clear, a person with diabetes can safely have any type of pizza they want on occasion, even if it’s not the most nutritious option.
However, in general, it’s best for people with diabetes (and everyone else) to consume mostly whole, nutrient-dense foods, including vegetables, fruits, protein sources like fish and chicken, as well as beans, nuts, and seeds.
When choosing carbs, it’s best to go for nutrient-dense carb sources most of the time. These include fruits, non-starchy vegetables, and whole grains, such as oats, brown rice, and buckwheat.
If you order pizza, there are some ways to make your slice a bit more nutritious and blood-sugar-friendly.
Ingredients to choose
When deciding on a slice, opt for toppings like these:
For fiber: grilled veggies, including zucchini, peppers, olives, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes
For protein: roasted chicken, fresh mozzarella
For healthy fats: olives, pine nuts
Choosing a whole grain crust or a crust made with almond flour or cauliflower can also boost your fiber intake.
Plus, a crust made with almond flour or vegetables like cauliflower tends to be much lower in carbs than regular pizza, and it will affect your blood sugar less significantly than crusts made with white or whole wheat flour.
Just keep in mind that certain low carb pizzas, such as those advertised to people on keto diets, can be very high in calories because they’re typically much higher in fat than regular pizza.
Ingredients to limit
It’s perfectly healthy to enjoy a slice of your favorite pizza on occasion, even if it contains ingredients like extra cheese or pepperoni.
That said, if you want to make your slice healthier, it’s best to limit certain ingredients.
Here are some ingredients to watch out for:
processed meats like bacon, ham, and sausage
fried chicken and fried vegetables like fried eggplant
extra cheese topping and cheese-stuffed pizza crusts
sweet toppings like barbecue sauce and sweetened pineapple chunks
extra-thick crusts and deep-dish-style pizzas
creamy, high calorie sauces like Alfredo sauce and ranch dressing
Many specialty pizzas contain one or more of these ingredients, which can significantly increase the carb content and overall calorie load of your slice.
For example, two large slices of Papa John’s Super Hawaiian Pizza contain 80 grams of carbs and 680 calories. Plus, at 1,840 mg of sodium, this meal packs 80% of the recommended daily sodium limit.
Also, be mindful of the size of your pizza slice. Even though frozen pizzas and chain restaurants have set slice sizes, independently owned pizzerias may cut very large slices, which contain more carbs and calories per slice.
SUMMARY
To make your slice a bit more nutritious, limit ingredients like processed meats, stuffed crusts, and creamy sauces. Instead, add nutrient-dense toppings like vegetables and grilled chicken.
Healthy tips for pizza lovers
If you’re a pizza lover and have diabetes, you don’t have to give up your favorite cheesy food.
Here are a few tips on how to incorporate pizza into an overall healthy diet.
Let go of the guilt. If you love pizza, there’s no reason to completely avoid it. It’s OK to enjoy a slice occasionally. In fact, studies show that in the short term, restricting your favorite foods can cause you to crave them even more (12Trusted Source).
Pair pizza with healthy sides. Enjoying a slice of pizza alongside a large salad with a protein source like grilled chicken or salmon is a smart way to cover all of your nutrient needs and make the meal more filling (13Trusted Source).
Go for nutrient-dense toppings that are high in fiber and protein. When ordering your pizza, choose toppings like mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes for fiber, and add a protein source, such as grilled chicken.
Make your own pizza at home. Making your own pizza at home is not only a fun experience but also allows you to control the ingredients. Check out the recipes below for ideas.
Be mindful of portion sizes. When ordering pizza, be aware of the slice sizes available. You can also choose thin crust pizzas at certain restaurants, which typically contain fewer calories and carbs.
If you break pizza down into its simplest ingredients, it’s really just flour, oil, cheese, and marinara sauce. Nothing to fear!
If you take a balanced approach to diet and nutrition, you can enjoy your favorite foods, including pizza, from time to time and not think twice about it.
Instead of fixating on one meal or one particular food, your focus should be on the overall quality of your diet.
SUMMARY
You can incorporate pizza into an overall healthy diet, regardless of whether you have diabetes. Try pairing your slice with a fiber- and protein-rich side dish, being mindful of your portion size, and trying out some healthy homemade pizza recipes.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Get our twice weekly Diabetes email
To help you stay on top of diabetes, we’ll send you tips on eating wisely, news on breakthroughs, and more.
Enter your email
Also sign up for our popular Heart Health newsletter
Your privacy is important to us
Nutritious pizza recipes
Making a pizza at home is a perfect way to try out new ingredients and create nutritious pizza recipes that are just as delicious as the slices you get from your favorite local pizzeria.
Here are a few ideas for homemade pizza recipes. These are a good choice for people with diabetes because they’re lower in carbs and higher in protein and fiber.
Zucchini pizza crust. This zucchini pizza crust is made with almond flour, zucchini, and eggs and topped with mini bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, mushrooms, jalapeño, and mozzarella.
Cauliflower pizza crust. Top this low carb cauliflower pizza crust with shredded chicken, pesto, mozzarella, and spinach for a delicious and low carb pesto chicken pizza that’s packed with protein.
Almond flour pizza crust. This low carb almond flour pizza crust is easy to make. Top it with your choice of cheese, sauce, and veggies.
If you aren’t a fan of making pizza from scratch, there are plenty of options for making pizza at home that require minimal work in the kitchen.
Frozen pizza crust options from Cappello’s and Califlour Foods make great options for those who don’t want to make their own crust.
Simple Mills offers nutritious boxed pizza mix crust made with minimal ingredients that can be whipped up in no time with just a few simple ingredients.
Shop for Cappello’s, Califlour Foods, and Simple Mills pizza crust online.
If you have diabetes, lower carb crusts and toppings that are higher in fiber and protein are a good choice. These will affect your blood sugar levels less significantly.
SUMMARY
Making your own pizza at home allows you to control its ingredients. Lower carb crusts, such as those made with almond flour or cauliflower, will affect your blood sugar levels less significantly than traditional crusts.
The bottom line
If you have diabetes, following a nutrient-dense diet is essential for optimal health and blood sugar management. However, this doesn’t mean you have to give up pizza.
Instead, enjoy a slice or two of your favorite pizza occasionally as part of a balanced diet.
Also, you can try making your own pizza at home using lower carb ingredients, such as almond flour and veggies, to make a diabetes-friendly pie that’s delicious and nutritious.
Just one thing
Like most New Yorkers, I am a big fan of pizza. However, I follow a mostly gluten-free diet, so I like to make pizza at home using simple ingredients. My favorite crust mix is from Simple Mills, and I also love Cappello’s frozen pizzas. Their White Pizza is my favorite!
Shop for Simple Mills crust mix and Cappelllo’s White Pizza online.
Food Fix: Foods Good for Diabetes
0 Comments