Insulin and the definition of Insulin Resistance

Insulin is a vital hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels.

More specifically, it's made by specialized cells called beta cells which are located in clusters known as the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas. These islets are the endocrine part of the pancreas, responsible for releasing hormones directly into the bloodstream.

So, to be precise:

• Organ: Pancreas

• Specific location: Islets of Langerhans

• Cell type: Beta cells

This intricate system allows the pancreas to monitor blood glucose levels and release insulin as needed to maintain a healthy balance.

When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters the bloodstream. This rise in blood glucose triggers the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin acts like a key, allowing glucose to enter your body's cells for energy or storage. This process lowers blood sugar levels and keeps them within a healthy range.

Insulin resistance develops when your body's cells become less responsive to insulin's signals. As a result, glucose has difficulty entering cells, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

To compensate, the pancreas produces more insulin, attempting to overcome the resistance. Over time, this can exhaust the pancreas, leading to even higher blood sugar levels and potentially progressing to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

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