How is insulin regulated in the blood?
insulin is a hormone produced by our body that has the main function of regulating the level of glucose or sugar in the blood.
glucose is the body's main source of energy, enabling us to carry out everything from the most intense workouts to everyday tasks. It is obtained from the food and drink we consume.
Insulin is produced in the pancreas and has other functions in addition to regulating glucose. It plays an important role in enzyme activities, it promotes the transport of necessary amino acids to the muscles. It is involved in protein synthesis and DNA synthesis. It promotes the absorption of potassium.
Without the presence of insulin, our body cannot use glucose in the cells and produce energy. If this happens, glucose remains in the bloodstream and can lead to hyperglycaemia.
How to test insulin?
To check the level of insulin in the blood, a professional takes a blood sample and then performs an analysis to measure the amount and presence of this hormone in the blood.
To check blood sugar, can be done by two procedures:
- A1C test
- Blood sugar test
Self-measurement: the test that is done by putting a drop of blood on a strip on which a meter will tell you the blood glucose result.
What is insulin resistance?
Insulin resistance occurs when insulin does not work properly and as a result, glucose stays in the blood for a longer period of time. High glucose levels can be the result of diabetes.
What is good for lowering insulin?
To lower your insulin level:
- It is advisable to do regular physical exercise : as it can help increase insulin sensitivity and as a result your cells can better use the available glucose
- Reducing carbohydrate intake , especially simple carbohydrates helps to reduce insulin levels
- Increasing the amount of fibre in the diet: this will promote a gradual and more progressive increase in blood sugar
- Select foods with a low glycaemic index.
- Losing weight : can reduce the risk of developing diabetes and helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels
Maintain proper rest : during the time we sleep, growth hormone is produced and cortisol, the stress hormone, which plays a key role in regulating blood sugar, is produced.
