Insulin Reponse

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. It is the primary hormone that regulates the signals for carbohydrate and lipid (fat) metabolism. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels in the blood by:

1. reducing glucose production in the liver
2. increasing glucose uptake and metabolism by muscle and adipose (fat) tissue

When you have a meal, in particular a meal with refined carbohydrates like sugar, pasta, bread and rice, your blood sugar levels will increase. This is because starches and other carbohydrates are quickly converted to glucose, which is easily and readily absorbed by our bodies, causing a spike in blood glucose levels.

This spike in blood glucose levels stimulates the release insulin from the pancrease, resulting in a spike in insulin levels. Insulin spikes are partly responsible for the sleepiness that people feel after a large meal, especially when the meal is full of refined carbohydrates. After the insulin spike, insulin levels crash, making you feel hungry again soon after you eat.

This insulin response is typical and normal. It's how our bodies regulate themselves to keep a balance. However it can have a negative effect on weight, especially when you consume high amounts of refined carbohydrates. You may often feel hungry very quickly after you eat, resulting in overeating and subsequently the excess calories consumed are stored as fat, causing weight gain.




The information provided has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is intended solely for general information and is NOT to replace advice from your physician or other medical professionals and should NOT be relied upon for any diagnosis, treatment or cure. Always check with your doctor before starting any new drug, alternative, natural or herbal treatments and supplements.