Insulin and diabetes
Key facts Insulin is a hormone that is produced by your body to break down glucose (sugar) from the food you eat, so it can be used for energy. If you have diabetes, your body can’t produce enough insulin, or use it effectively, to break down the glucose in your body and turn it into energy. All people with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 diabetes need regular insulin replacement to keep their blood glucose (blood sugar) level under control. Insulin needs to be stored and used correctly to be safe and effective. Taking too little or