The human body produces and circulates approximately 50 hormones. Of these 50, insulin remains one of the most important, and often one of the most misunderstood.

While most people understand that diabetes and insulin are connected, not many understand the role it truly plays. It is important to note that insulin performs valuable functions within all of our bodies, and even as a non-diabetic, it can be extremely beneficial to learn what these are.

So let’s get into it.

What Does Insulin Do for Your Body?

Insulin is a hormone that is generated by your pancreas, a gland that sits slightly below your stomach. Its main function involves helping your body transform glucose into usable energy and maintaining your blood sugar levels.

During the digestive process, after you consume food, your body converts the carbohydrates (one of three macronutrients) into glucose. After this process is complete, your body is now prepared to absorb this glucose into its bloodstream.

However, you are still unable to use this energy yet. To enable the absorption by your cells, your pancreas then secretes a proportionate level of insulin to help convert the glucose in your bloodstream into sugar.

As its second task, insulin is also responsible for ensuring that your bloodstream has a balanced sugar level at all times. When it senses an excessive amount of sugar, it directs your liver to store the excess until your blood sugar levels decrease.

When this process is disturbed, a person may develop several illnesses and symptoms in their bodies.

Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: Symptoms You Should Know

Being overweight, overeating or leading a sedentary lifestyle can often put you at risk for diabetes or hypoglycemia. However, some people with a family history of insulin resistance can also develop similar problems. Also, keep in mind that hypoglycemia can also occur in patients without diabetes.

• Increased thirst or appetite
• The constant need to urinate
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Multiple infections
• Anxiety or other mental disturbances
• Sleep disturbances
• Confusion and disorientation
• Seizures
• Losing consciousness
• Blurred eyesight or sudden visual difficulties
• Shaking or trembling

The above are signs that your body’s insulin levels are out of balance. Substances like vanadyl sulfate and other replacements that replicate the function of insulin have proven to be very helpful in managing these symptoms.

However, if you suspect that you suffer from an insulin deficiency or insulin resistance, it is best you get your bloodwork done and see a qualified doctor.

How to Find the Right Doctor

An endocrinologist would be ideal to help you manage your hormones. It is well worth it to note that diabetes and insulin go hand in hand, and while you may not be a diabetic yourself, the imbalance of insulin levels can make diabetes a very real possibility.

To find the right doctor, ask your friends for recommendations, do your research and schedule a consultation with someone you feel comfortable with. Also, anyone diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes should check this Diabetes Freedom guide irrespective of their gender, age, and whatever.

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