Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

Q:

I was wondering why adipose tissue is more resistant to insulin than muscle tissue? Does it have anything to do elasticity?

A:

Adipose tissue is a slower conductor of sustances, which makes it more desireable for insulin deposition, favoring a slower release into the system. Adipose tissue has far less vasculariztion than muscle tissue, accounting for the slower release. In choosing injection sites, adipose tissue vs. muscle are not the only considerations; activity of a site is also important. Thighs are not good daytime choices, as the activity of legs increases the activity of insulin, "upsetting" the projected action times.