Insulinën

Insulinën is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. Its primary role is to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy or storage. When blood glucose rises, such as after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin. This allows cells, particularly muscle, fat, and liver cells, to absorb glucose. In the liver, insulin promotes the conversion of glucose into glycogen for storage. It also inhibits the liver from producing more glucose.

The absence or insufficient production of insulin, or the body's inability to use insulin effectively, leads to diabetes mellitus. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells, leading to little or no insulin production. Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance, where cells do not respond properly to insulin, and can also involve a decline in insulin production over time.

Insulin therapy is a crucial treatment for type 1 diabetes and is also used for some individuals with type 2 diabetes. Synthetic insulins are manufactured and administered via injection or insulin pump. Different types of insulin exist, varying in how quickly they start to work, when they peak, and how long they last, allowing for individualized treatment regimens. Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential for effective insulin management.