What does Insulin do

Function of Insulin

Insulin is made by the pancreas which is a gland that lies behind the stomach. Insulin is released after meals and acts mainly on the liver, muscles and fatty tissues. Normally the pancreas produces enough insulin to stimulate the liver, muscle and fatty tissues to take up glucose and fats from the blood. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin and in addition the body is unable to use it properly.

Insulin makes the liver take up glucose from the blood so it can be stored for later use. If there isn't enough insulin, the liver cannot store glucose and instead releases it into the bloodstream. This is the main reason people with type 2 diabetes have high blood sugar.
In muscles, insulin make cells take up and store glucose so that it can be used for energy during exercise.
Fat cells need insulin to take up and the fat that you eat in your diet. Fat cells store fat which can be used to produce energy when it is needed.

SYNDICATE THIS WEBSITE VIA RSS NEWS FEED HERE | VISIT OUR WEB LOG

Website updated on : 02 November, 2006