What factors affect insulin absorption?
Absorption rates vary from person to person. It is believed that the more fat at an injection site, the slower the insulin is absorbed by the body. The temperature of your body based on outside influences also has an effect on absorption. Cold temperatures or cold compresses can actually decrease absorption while hot temperatures, such as from a hot shower or sun bathing, can speed up the absorption process. Smoking can also decrease absorption, while massaging or exercising the injected area will speed up the absorption process.
Absorption rates vary from person to person. Different absorption rates can affect your blood sugar levels. It is thought that the more fat at an injection site, the more slowly the insulin is absorbed by the body. The temperature of your body based on outside influences also has an effect on absorption. Cold temperatures or cold compresses can actually decrease absorption, while hot temperatures, such as from a hot shower or sun bathing, can speed up absorption. Smoking can also decrease absorption, while massaging or exercising the injected area will speed up absorption. Also, the absorption rate differs depending on the insulin injection site. For instance, injecting into your abdomen results in the quickest absorption. After the abdomen, absorption is best in your upper arms, buttocks, and thighs, in that order. It’s recommended that you inject your insulin into the same body part. However, be careful not to use the same exact spot over and over again to prevent lumps from forming.
