Diabetes and weight gain

Diabetes itself does not cause weight gain

Before starting on an automated insulin delivery (AID) system, some people worry about whether it will cause them to gain weight. If you're on insulin, you might notice the pounds creeping up. Don't worry, you're not alone!

Let’s find out why and give you some tips to help keep your weight in check.
 

Why people with diabetes may gain weight

There are a few potential causes for gaining weight if you are insulin dependent.
 

Improved glucose control

First of all, people with undiagnosed diabetes may experience glycosuria (glucose in your urine). When diabetes is not managed, many calories go right through the body and get disposed of in urine. This typically occurs when the glucose level gets above 180 mg/dL.

With better glucose control, calories eaten stay in the body where the excess is stored as fat. Since automated insulin delivery improves glucose control (which is a good thing!), glucose (and therefore calories) is no longer lost in the urine. Now overeating will lead to weight gain — just like it does in someone without diabetes.
 

Treating hypoglycemia

If you have an episode of hypoglycemia, you take glucose to correct it. If hypoglycemia occurs often, or you take more glucose than is actually needed, you can end up consuming an excess of calories.
 

How to avoid weight gain while on insulin

Controlling weight gain while on insulin likely requires some lifestyle changes.
 

Automated insulin delivery systems

An AID system can regulate glucose levels and help prevent hypoglycemia. The less often you experience low glucose levels, the less often you are to grab a sugar-filled item to treat it.
 

Nutrition

Whether you’re living with diabetes or not, nutrition is key to a healthy weight. One thing you can do is meet with a dietitian to understand your nutrition plan and actually follow it. Another tip is to ensure you’re eating — skipping meals can cause your glucose levels to drop.

Remember you have a team to help you succeed: your healthcare provider, your diabetes educator, your dietitian, and your family and friends.
 

Exercise

Exercise is another important part of maintaining a healthy weight, but did you know it also makes an impact on your body’s blood sugar? Being active increases sensitivity to insulin, which better allows your body to convert blood sugar to energy. Physical activity is helpful for both your weight and diabetes management.

[Originally published 2011-08-17. Updated 2024-12-11]
 

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
- Medtronic Diabetes insulin infusion pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems and associated components are limited to sale by or on the order of a physician and should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional familiar with the risks associated with the use of these systems. - Successful operation of the insulin infusion pumps and/or continuous glucose monitoring systems requires adequate vision and hearing to recognize alerts and alarms.

Medtronic Diabetes Insulin Infusion Pumps
- Insulin pump therapy is not recommended for individuals who are unable or unwilling to perform a minimum of four blood glucose tests per day. - Insulin pumps use rapid-acting insulin. If your insulin delivery is interrupted for any reason, you must be prepared to replace the missed insulin immediately.

Medtronic Diabetes Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems
- The information provided by CGM systems is intended to supplement, not replace, blood glucose information obtained using a home glucose meter. A confirmatory fingerstick is required prior to treatment. - Insertion of a glucose sensor may cause bleeding or irritation at the insertion site. Consult a physician immediately if you experience significant pain or if you suspect that the site is infected. Please visit http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/importantsafetyinformation for complete safety information.