Think Like a Pancreas Chapter 3: The lowdown on insulin (what it is, how it works, options available)

Understanding insulin is the foundation everything else in diabetes management builds on. In this episode of Think Like a Pancreas--the Podcast, Tavia Vital is joined by author, Gary Scheiner to break down the basics. They talk about how insulin actually works in the body (Gary's "key and lock" analogy), the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and why some people can have features of both at once. You'll learn the real purpose of basal insulin versus bolus insulin, why "waking up with a good number" doesn't necessarily mean your basal dose is right, and how the major factors — food, stress hormones, physical activity, and insulin — work together to raise or lower blood sugar.  Whether you're newly diagnosed or just want a refresher on the fundamentals, this episode lays the groundwork for everything else covered in Think Like a Pancreas. MEET YOUR HOST AND HER GUEST: Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES is the Director of Intensive Diabetes Management for Integrated Diabetes Services. Tavia is a Registered Nurse, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on most makes/models of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Having lived with type one diabetes for over 40 years, she understands that each person’s experiences and needs are unique.   Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES is the owner and Clinical Director of Integrated Diabetes Services. He is an award-winning Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist and person with type-1 diabetes since 1985.  Gary is also actively involved with many diabetes related organizations as a volunteer and clinical advisor. KEY TAKEAWAYS AND HIGHLIGHTS: ✔️There are many types and sub-types of diabetes. ✔️ There are at least 11 different classes of medications for lowering glucose levels. ✔️ Basal insulin should keep blood glucose levels flat, while bolus insulin is used to cover food that is eaten. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 02:43 The Types of Diabetes 10:12 What Kind of Diabetes Do I Have? 11:48 Things That Impact Blood Glucose 17:26 The Role of Basal Insulin 19:12 Bolus Insulin 20:13 The Job of Insulin in the Body 22:16 Adjusting Insulin 24:38 The Most Important Chapter in Think Like a Pancreas   RESOURCES: Think Like A Pancreas - 4th edition   https://integrateddiabetes.com/store/think-like-a-pancreas-4th-edition https://integrateddiabetes.com/ids-packages/ CONNECT WITH US: 🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com 🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook 🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/appointments/   or email [email protected] SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If the podcast has helped you to live better with diabetes, please tell someone else how to find it! If you have a question, take a moment and ask! We reply to everyone. And then be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode! Disclaimer The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.