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Insulin is a hormone normally secreted in the pancreas that aids in digestion. When we eat, food is converted into glucose (sugar) that is then absorbed by cells in the body that convert the glucose into energy. Insulin is necessary for the cells to be able to absorb glucose. Inadequate production of insulin means that cells are unable to absorb and use glucose.

Normally, the body produces insulin whenever the level of glucose in the blood is high, such as right after a meal. In a condition known as diabetes mellitis (or diabetes for short), insulin production is impaired. In some cases, individuals with diabetes must take insulin, normally by injection, to help their body process glucose.