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.
by Catherine E. Myers. Copyright © 2006 Memory Loss and the Brain |