Yes, insulin is a hormone.
What is Insulin?
Insulin is a crucial peptide hormone produced by beta cells within the pancreas's islets of Langerhans. Its primary function is to regulate blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells throughout the body. This process provides cells with the energy they need to function properly. [Insulin is an essential hormone](reference indicating insulin is a hormone). It's so vital that life without it is not sustainable. [What is insulin? Insulin is a key hormone that regulates your blood sugar levels. It's so important that you can't live without it.](reference highlighting insulin's importance).
Insulin's Role in Blood Sugar Control
Insulin works in conjunction with glucagon, another pancreatic hormone. While insulin lowers blood sugar when levels are too high, glucagon raises blood sugar levels when they drop too low, maintaining a balanced blood glucose level. [While glucagon keeps blood glucose from dropping too low, insulin is produced to keep blood glucose from rising too high.](reference explaining insulin's role in blood sugar regulation). This delicate balance is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing conditions like diabetes. [Insulin is a natural hormone that turns food into energy and manages your blood sugar level.](reference describing insulin's function).
Insulin Deficiency and Diabetes
If the body doesn't produce sufficient insulin (or if cells become resistant to its effects), blood sugar levels can rise significantly, leading to diabetes. This highlights insulin's vital role in metabolic health. [If your body doesn't make enough insulin, you may need insulin ...](reference connecting insulin deficiency to diabetes).
Further Information
For more detailed information about insulin, including its function, types, and potential side effects, refer to reputable sources like the Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22601-insulin) and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes/prediabetes-insulin-resistance).
