Unlike the insulin that your body makes, insulin that is injected has to have time to be absorbed before it can work. Rapid-acting insulin analogs should be injected right before eating because they start to work right away. This mimics the natural pattern of insulin release by the body. Learn more about Novo Nordisk rapid-acting insulin. Insulin surges when the food is being digested and then returns to a lower level between meals. It's important to make sure you eat within the time frame your insulin is working to help prevent low blood sugar.

Rapid-acting insulin analogs can be taken within 15 minutes of starting a meal.

Carbohydrate counting is a meal-planning method used to count carbohydrate content in food, rather than calories, fat, or protein content. This method of meal planning is often used by people with diabetes, especially those on an intensive insulin therapy plan. Your insulin dose is usually adjusted according to your premeal blood sugar result and the amount of carbohydrates you expect to eat. Ask your doctor or diabetes care team to refer you to a registered dietitian for help in learning how carbohydrate counting can help you manage your diabetes.

People who take insulin can still lead very full and active lives. The amount of insulin that your body needs will depend on how much you eat, when you eat, and your activity level. Talk with your doctor and diabetes care team about specific aspects of your meal and exercise plans. They can help you balance your lifestyle with your diabetes care plan. Also, there are prefilled disposable insulin pens that can simplify taking insulin. Ask your doctor if a prefilled disposable insulin pen might be right for you. Learn more about several types of prefilled disposable insulin pens.