Since 1994, the UK-based Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust (IDDT) has supported people with diabetes and their caretakers. It is a charitable organization operating entirely on volunteer donations. IDDT is not influenced financially from the drug industry, all their donations are Big Pharma-Free.
IDDT has a wealth of information for type 1 and type 2 diabetics. Of special note is IDDT's comprehensive explanation of the GM 'Human' Insulin vs. Animal Insulin debate. Allie has written several posts addressing the issue. Since switching from synthetic to pork insulin, her blood pressure has dropped, her blood sugar control is better and her appetite has lessened. She has also gained tremendous insights from IDDT along the way.
Back in 1994, IDDT collected a load of feedback from people with diabetes and their caregivers on their experience with synthetic 'human' insulin. The top three complaints were loss of warning of hypos or functioning on automatic pilot; extreme tiredness/lethargy; and weight gain of 21 pounds or more. Whether you have researched this debate deeply or are just scratching the surface, IDDT is a good resource. They also award research grants, and their Dream Trust supports young people with diabetes in developing countries.
It's a crime the US only offers genetically modified human insulin. Other countries sell animal insulin. People with diabetes should have a choice of insulins, adverse reactions to synthetics are real.
