How insulin affects fat. The effect of insulin on the development of obesity. Diseases caused by hormone deficiency

Plums are not only tasty, bright and juicy, but also healthy. Such fruits have different tastes, they can be tart, sweet, sour, aromatic. And today we decided to tell you how to prepare a very tasty and rich plum compote for drinking right away!

Ingredients

Step-by-step recipe for making plum compote for drinking right away with photos

So let's get down to business:

First, wash the plums thoroughly.

As soon as the water begins to boil, place the plum fruits in it. When the liquid with the fruits begins to boil again, add sugar, cook the drink for 8 minutes, then turn off the heat, cover the container with a lid and let the compote brew. That's all, in a couple of hours you can enjoy and quench your thirst with a delicious homemade drink. Plum compote is ready to drink immediately!

Video recipe for plum compote to drink immediately

Compote apple plum

So, in order to prepare compote according to this recipe you will need:

Ingredients:
apple – 300 grams;
plums – 200 grams;
sugar – 0.5 cups.

Well, let's get to work:

1. Pour hot water into the container, add sugar, stir.
2. Then you should wash the apples and cut them into slices.
3. Next, you need to put a container of water and sugar on the fire and bring the contents to a boil.
4. As soon as the water starts to boil, boil the apple slices for 10 minutes.
5. Then wash the plums, divide them into two halves, remove the seeds and place the plum halves in a container with apples, cook the compote for another 5 minutes. That's all, then cool the drink, it will just brew, and treat your household to a delicious plum and apple compote!

Protein hormone insulin - essential element metabolic processes in all tissues of the human body, performing such a significant function as reducing the concentration of glucose in the blood. However, the functionality of insulin is very multifaceted, since it affects all types of metabolic processes in the human body and is not limited to just regulating carbohydrate balance. Impaired insulin production and its effects on tissue are fundamental factors in the development of a dangerous pathological condition -.

The main prerequisite for the synthesis and secretion of insulin in cells is an increase in blood glucose levels. In addition, the process of eating food itself, and not only those containing glucose, serves as an additional physiological stimulus for the release of insulin. carbohydrate products nutrition.

Insulin synthesis

The biosynthesis of this protein hormone is a complex process that has a number of complex biological stages. First of all, the body forms an inactive form of the protein molecule insulin, which is called proinsulin. This prohormone, a precursor to insulin, is an important indicator of the functionality of the pancreas. Further, in the process of synthesis, after a series of chemical transformations, proinsulin acquires active form.

Insulin production in healthy person occurs throughout the day and night, but the most significant production of this peptide hormone is observed immediately after the morning meal.

Secretion

Insulin, as a biologically active element produced by the pancreas, increases its secretion due to the following processes:

• Increased blood sugar levels during the development of diabetes mellitus. Subsequently, the drop in insulin will be directly proportional to the rise in sugar.
• High vacancy rate fatty acids. Against the background of a persistent increase in body fat mass (obesity), there is a significant increase in the amount of free fatty acids in the blood. These processes have a detrimental effect on human health, provoke excessive secretion of sugar-lowering hormone, damage the cellular structure of tissues, and contribute to the development of dangerous pathologies.
• The influence of amino acids, mainly arginine and leucine. These organic compounds stimulate the production of insulin from the pancreas. The more amino acids in the body, the more insulin is released.
• Increased levels of calcium and potassium. An increased concentration of these substances increases the secretion of protein-peptide hormone, which is released due to a sharp change in the conditions of the biological environment.
• Effects of hormones produced by cells of the digestive system and pancreas. These hormones include: gastrin, cholecystokinin, secretin and others. These active substances lead to a moderate increase in insulin secretion and are produced by stomach cells immediately after eating.
• Ketone bodies - chemical compounds, formed by the liver and are intermediate products of metabolic processes: carbohydrate, protein and fat. Exceeding the levels of these substances in the body indicates pathological disorder in metabolism and, as a result, additional secretion of insulin.

Stress hormones such as adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol provoke a significant release of insulin into the blood. These active substances internal secretion are produced during acute overexertion, in order to mobilize the body.

Stressful processes occur against the background sharp jump blood sugar levels, which is an immediate condition for the body’s survival in dangerous situations. There is a concept - stress hyperglycemia, a hormonal reaction that is characterized by an increase in the concentration of glucose in the blood during periods of severe nervous disorders.

Symptoms of this condition:

• Strong feeling of thirst.
• Frequent urge to urinate.
• Headaches and loss of concentration.
• Feeling very tired.
• The appearance of “stars” before the eyes.

In the treatment of hyperglycemia, priority is given to careful monitoring of glucose levels, using a special device, and strict adherence to a therapeutic diet. Also, the doctor prescribes medications that lower glucose in the bloodstream.

Hypoglycemia

A pathological process that occurs against the background of a drop in glucose content in the bloodstream. At the same time, all systems of the human body suffer from energy starvation, but in to a greater extent brain activity is disrupted. Hypoglycemia can occur for a number of reasons: excessive secretion of insulin in the pancreas, high levels of insulin in the body, a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism in the liver, or malfunction of the adrenal glands.

Standard manifestations of hypoglycemia:

• Increased feelings of anxiety and restlessness.
• Painful sensations in the head, throbbing.
• Nervousness and irritability.
• Constant feeling of hunger.
• Feeling of burning and discomfort in the epigastric region.
• Trembling muscles.
• Arrhythmia and tachycardia.

After a standard meal, there is a noticeable increase in sugar levels, while the pancreas is not able to release insulin, which is typical for high glucose levels. As a result of this process, the cellular sensitivity responsible for recognizing the sugar-lowering hormone is weakened. This condition is called insulin resistance, the resistance of the cell membrane to the influence of insulin.

Diagnostics

To identify the disease, the following studies are carried out:

1. Laboratory blood test for glucose.
2. Determination of the level of glycosylated hemoglobin. Its levels are greatly exceeded in people with diabetes.
3. Glucose tolerance test.
4. for sugar and ketone compounds.

Late execution diagnostic measures and the lack of proper treatment for type 2 diabetes can lead the patient to serious complications, often with hidden development. The most common complications include: the development of kidney dysfunction, elevated blood pressure (hypertension), impaired visual function and cataracts, tissue damage lower limbs and the formation of ulcers.

Video: Why do you need insulin and how does it work?

It is important to understand the seriousness of this disease endocrine system and try to prevent the development of the disease through early diagnosis, a competent treatment regimen and adherence to strict dietary recommendations. Otherwise, the pathological processes of diabetes mellitus can lead to irreversible consequences for human health.

It is a hormone that has a peptide (nutrient) basis, that is, it consists of several amino acid molecules. The hormone serves primarily to lower blood sugar levels by transporting it to all tissues of the human body. According to the PubMed database, netizens asked what insulin is and its role in the body approximately 300 thousand times. This figure is an absolute record among hormones.

Insulin is synthesized in the endocrine beta cells of the tail of the pancreas. This area is called the Islet of Langerhans in honor of the scientist who discovered it. Despite the importance of the hormone, only 1-2% of the organ produces it.

Insulin is synthesized according to the following algorithm:

• Initially, preproinsulin is produced in the pancreas. It is the main insulin.
• At the same time, a signal peptide is synthesized, which serves as a conductor for preproinsmulin. It will have to deliver the insulin base to endocrine cells, where it is transformed into proinsulin.
• The finished precursor remains for a long time in endocrine cells (in the Golgi apparatus) in order to completely undergo the maturation process. After this stage is completed, it is divided into insulin and C-peptide. The last of them reflects the endocrine activity of the pancreas.
• The synthesized substance begins to interact with zinc ions. Its release from beta cells into the human blood occurs only when the sugar concentration increases.
• Insulin synthesis can be interfered with by its antagonist, glucagon. Its production occurs in alpha cells on the islets of Langerhans.

Since 1958, insulin has been measured in international units of action (IU), where 1 unit equals 41 mcg. A person's insulin requirement is displayed in carbohydrate units (CU). The hormone norm by age is as follows:

• Newborns:
  • on an empty stomach from 3 units;
  • after meals up to 20 units.
• Adults:
  • on an empty stomach at least 3 units;
  • after meals no more than 25 units.
• Elderly:
  • on an empty stomach from 6 units;
  • after meals up to 35 units.

The insulin molecule includes 2 polypeptide chains, which contain 51 monomeric protein units, presented in the form of amino acid residues:

The chains are connected by 2 disulfide bonds passing through alpha sulfur-containing amino acid (cysteine) residues. The third bridge is localized only to the A chain.

The role of the hormone in the body

Insulin plays a major role in metabolism. Thanks to its effects, cells receive energy, and the body maintains a balance of breakdown and saturation with various substances.

Due to the petite nature of the hormone, its supply cannot be replenished from food. Otherwise, insulin, like any other protein, would be digested without having any effect on the body.

You can understand why insulin is needed by looking at the list of its functions:

• improving the penetration of glucose through cell membranes;
• activation of glycolysis enzymes (glucose oxidation);
• stimulation of the production of glycogen by the liver and muscle tissue;
• increased production of fats and proteins;
• weakening the effects of substances that break down glycogen and fat.

The listed functions of insulin are basic. You can see his secondary goals below:

• improving the absorption of amino acids by cells;
• increasing the amount of calcium and magnesium entering cells;
• stimulation of protein synthesis;
• influence on the formation of esters.

By transporting glucose into the body's cells, insulin provides the body with the energy it needs. It is the only hormone that lowers blood sugar levels. Such a large-scale impact allows us to have the following effects:

• Muscle growth. The role of insulin in the human body is not limited to basic functions. All muscle tissue under its influence begins to increase in volume. This is due to the influence of the hormone on non-membrane organelles of a living cell (ribosomes). The essence of their effect is the synthesis of protein important for muscle growth. That is why bodybuilders often use protein shakes, which are its artificial analogue.
• Glycogen production. You can figure out why insulin is needed in the body by looking at the enzyme system that is under the influence of the hormone. Its activity increases significantly. Especially if you look at glycogen synthesis. Despite the fact that insulin is its antagonist, their production is interconnected and the better one substance is synthesized, the more of the other.

How does the hormone work?

When studying the features of insulin, you need to pay attention to its mechanism of action. It is based on influencing target cells that need glucose. The most in demand in it is fat and muscle. Sugar is no less important for the liver. Target cells use glucose as needed and store excess. The reserve is presented in the form of glycogen. When energy starvation occurs, glucose is released from it and sent to the blood, where its cycle is repeated.

The balance of insulin and glucose in the blood is ensured by its antagonist, glucagon. If there are disruptions in the production of one of the hormones, then a person’s sugar level rises (hyperglycemia) or falls (hypoglycemia). Any of these complications can cause dire consequences, including coma and death.

Impact on human health

A decrease in sugar concentration caused by excessively high amounts of insulin is called hypoglycemia. A person experiences severe weakness, up to loss of consciousness. IN severe cases Possible death and hypoglycemic coma. In contrast to this condition, there is hyperglycemia, caused by low concentrations of the hormone or its poor absorption. It manifests itself in the form of diabetes mellitus. There are 2 types of disease:

• The first type is called insulin-dependent because of the person's need for insulin injections. The disease occurs due to dysfunction of the pancreas. Treatment includes hormone injections and lifestyle changes.
• The second type is called insulin-independent, since the hormone is produced by the pancreas, but in insufficient quantities or the target cells perceive it worse. The disease is common in people over 40 years of age, especially those who suffer from obesity. The essence of treatment is to take medications that improve the perception of the hormone and lifestyle modifications.

The information on the site is provided solely for popular informational purposes, does not claim to be reference or medical accuracy, and is not a guide to action. Do not self-medicate. Consult your healthcare provider.

How does insulin affect the body?

Insulin is a hormone that the human body produces in specialized cells of the pancreas. The function of this hormone is to maintain normal level blood sugar. Insulin deficiency causes diabetes, but thanks to the discovery and availability of insulin formulations, people with diabetes can live normal lives.

Insulin medications should be administered subcutaneously using syringes and special dispensers. Diabetes symptoms subside during the administration of these drugs, but this is not synonymous with curing the disease. Relapses of diabetes symptoms occur after discontinuation of insulin medications.

Mechanism of action of insulin

As is already known, insulin is a universal hormone. It helps in ensuring all metabolic processes in our body. The role of this hormone is to act on target cells into which excess glucose from the blood is transported during carbohydrate metabolism.

The mechanism of action of insulin increases the storage of glucose processes in the liver in the form of glycogen, and also stimulates protein synthesis in the body.

Fat tissue, muscle and liver respond most actively to insulin. Therefore, these cells process all the sugar that was deposited by insulin, and also store it in reserve in case of energy starvation. At the same time, glucose is deposited in the form of glycogen. And if the body needs it, glucose is released into the circulatory system from glycogen.

Effect of insulin in the body

The main action of insulin is to ensure proper utilization of glucose in the human body. Unused glucose is excreted from the body in urine. In such a situation, there is a lack of energy in the body, thus turning on the use of body fats. An increase in fat metabolism and the excretion of excess glucose in the urine causes typical symptoms diabetes, namely:

• increased urination;
• increased appetite;
• increased thirst.

Increasing insulin deficiency can lead to acidosis. Insulin drugs used in the treatment of diabetes were, until recently, collected from the pancreas of pigs and large cattle. The process of obtaining the drugs was quite complex and therefore required special production from tissue taken from animals for slaughter. To obtain a dose of insulin for one year of treatment for a patient, you will need 7 kg of tissue taken from the pancreas of animals. Thus, producing insulin is not only a complex process, but also expensive.

In the eighties, using genetic engineering methods, the production of human insulin began using baker's yeast and bacteria coli, which is the natural habitat of the living human digestive tract.

These microorganisms were “reprogrammed” to produce insulin. They possess, in addition to the self-regulation of proteins, the synthesis of insulin. The bacteria's production provides huge amounts of insulin, similar to the natural insulin produced in the human body. Similarities chemical structure artificial insulin and natural insulin have great importance in the rate of its absorption in tissues, as well as in the effectiveness of insulin on the body.

Main causes of occurrence How to recognize the disease? How to treat? Preventive measures Hypoglycemia is a condition in the body […]

Characteristics of the hormone Insulin control Conducting an analysis Insulin norm Insulin is one of the most important hormones […]

Causes of pathology Symptoms Treatment Hypoglycemia is a human condition characterized by low levels of glucose in the blood. […]

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Insulin is a sugar-lowering hormone

Cells, tissues and organs perform specific functions in the human body. If something goes wrong and the functionality of at least one organ is disrupted, then this disruption will cause a chain reaction in other body systems.

Many people have heard about hormones, including the hormone insulin. These are substances produced by various glands in the body. Each hormone differs from others in its chemical composition and purpose. However, there are similarities between them: they are all responsible for metabolic processes and human well-being.

Pancreas and insulin

Scientists have proven that insulin is produced by the pancreas. This internal organ has a width of 3 cm and a length of 20 cm. Average weight does not exceed 80 g. Other organs are larger in size, but it is impossible to neglect the importance of this organ. It affects all metabolic processes and is responsible for some digestive processes occurring in the gastrointestinal tract.

The pancreas performs two large-scale functions (intra- and exocrine). The first includes the production of enzymes. Enzymatic substances are necessary because the human body functions by carrying out a large number of metabolic reactions in it, and enzymes are accelerators of all biochemical processes.

But the second function is even more important. The human body has entrusted the pancreas with responsibility for the production of a large number of important hormones, including insulin, the importance of which is difficult to overestimate. Insulin is a hormone that affects almost everything functional systems body. But its greatest activity is manifested in large organs: liver, fatty fibers and muscle tissue.

Human insulin is produced by beta cells of the pancreas. These cells are located inside the gland and are called the islets of Sobolev-Langerhans. The action of insulin is that it regulates the level of glucose in human blood. To be more precise, a person’s insulin should lower its level. Glucose by its nature is considered the “fuel” for the functioning of all cells of any organs and tissues.

The action of insulin is aimed at opening access for glucose so that it enters every cell. If this function is not performed, diabetes may develop. The gland of a healthy person is capable of secreting up to 45 units of insulin per day. If pancreas disease occurs, it cannot produce enough insulin. Insulin deficiency leads to the development of diabetes and other diseases. Lack of the hormone leads to glucose stagnating and accumulating in the blood, but is not used for its intended purpose. Cells experience “hunger” at such moments. To combat this problem, insulin injections are used for diabetes.

But glucose is not the only substance that insulin transports. It can transport amino acids, potassium and other blood elements.

Hormone structure

The structure of insulin is as follows. One molecule of the hormone is formed from two chains of polypeptides, which, in turn, contain amino acid residues (51 pcs.). Conventionally, the structure of the molecule can be divided into chains A and B. The first consists of 21 amino acid residues, and the second - of 30. These chains of polypeptides are connected to each other by disulfide bridges. There should be two of them. They work through cysteine ​​residues.

It has been proven that the structure of insulin in various types different on the planet. This is due to the fact that the hormone can perform various functions in the metabolism of each individual biological species. However, the composition of insulin in humans and pigs has much in common in the structure and configuration of the molecules. The only difference is the number of amino acid residues. Porcine insulin has alanine at the end, at position 30 in the chain, and human insulin has threonine at this position. At the same time, bovine insulin differs from human insulin in only three amino acid residues.

In 1958, F. Sanger first gave a comprehensive description of the human hormone and compared it with animal analogues. He received the Nobel Prize for his discovery of the chemical composition of insulin. This award was also given to D. K. Hodgkin, who used X-ray diffraction to describe the spatial structure of the insulin molecule. This discovery occurred in the early 90s. Insulin is the first protein that scientists were able to decipher by revealing its amino acids.

The influence of insulin on processes in the human body

As noted earlier, this hormone is the only substance in the human body that can reduce sugar levels. This is manifested in the fact that cells absorb glucose faster, enzymes that participate in glycolysis are activated, and the rate of synthesis during glycolysis increases. This is because the hormone causes liver cells and muscle cells to store glucose by converting it into glycogen. In addition, the liver reduces the activity of producing various substances glucose.

The hormone causes cells to intensively absorb amino acids. Insulin accelerates the transport and supply of potassium, phosphorus and magnesium to cells. If there is not enough of it in the body, then the use of fat cells occurs, since it is insulin that converts glucose into triglyceride in the liver tissue and in fat cells. Therefore, it can be argued that the hormone affects the production of fatty acids. It is able to influence the rate of protein biosynthesis.

In addition, insulin reduces the rate of protein degradation because it suppresses the rate of protein hydrolysis.

Standard medical indicators of insulin

Each hormone has its own content values, standard for the body of a healthy person. By their deviations one can judge the development of various syndromes and diseases. The level of the hormone in the blood may increase after eating.

There are some requirements when taking an analysis to determine the amount of this hormone in the body. Before the procedure, you must refrain from eating, otherwise the test values ​​may be changed, since the activity of the pancreas directly depends on the digestive system (although this relationship is two-way). When eating food before taking tests, the reliability of the data will be questioned due to the activation of the gland. To determine a person's insulin level, simply monitor their sugar levels.

Additional examinations are often prescribed to more accurately determine the likelihood of developing glandular diseases.

The level of insulin in the blood (on an empty stomach) can normally vary from 3 to 28 µU per ml. It depends on what standard the laboratory sets, and all medical laboratories have their own standard values. When receiving a transcript, it is better not to panic, but to contact several doctors. There are deviations caused by physical condition humans, but they are quite safe. For example, in a pregnant woman, the insulin index ranges from 6 to 28 µU per ml. In children, all organs are still in the process of development, and the level of the hormone may be reduced.

There are two forms of diabetes mellitus:

1. Type 1 diabetes. There is a gradual decrease in insulin levels. In such a situation, the functioning of the pancreas is disrupted, insulin is synthesized in insufficient quantities, and it cannot cope with all the glucose in the blood. This, in turn, causes cells to starve (even to the point of their death).
2. Diabetes of the second type. The hormone is available in sufficient quantities. In such a situation, the pancreas functions normally and produces the hormone, but it is not perceived by the cells. Therefore, glucose cannot enter the cells.

It is worth understanding that the level of any indicator can vary depending on the gender and age of a person. Men and women have approximately the same levels (from 3.5 to 5.5 mmol per liter). This is considered the norm. But if the index varies from 5.6 to 6.6 mmol per liter, then you need to adhere to a certain diet and conduct additional examination. This level is considered the maximum. ABOUT diabetes mellitus It’s too early to say, but without certain preventive measures, such a disorder can develop into an illness. If the indicator rises to 6.7 mmol per liter, then doctors recommend taking another test (glucose tolerance). This test pays attention to other indicators of the body in a normal state. If during this test the indicator varies within 7.7 mmol per liter, then everything is normal. If the indicator rises to 11.1 mmol per liter, then this is a consequence of disturbances in the functioning of the body system responsible for carbohydrate metabolism. If the index exceeds the threshold of 11.1 mmol per liter, then the doctor diagnoses diabetes mellitus. Insulin is an important substance in the human body.

Without it, not a single person can survive, because it is this hormone that affects the functioning of almost every organ, due to the fact that it delivers glucose to every cell of the body, forcing it to work and perform its functions.

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The effect of insulin on the body

Thanks to insulin, which is an important polypeptide hormone, proper cellular functioning is carried out. We can say that the effect of insulin on the body is quite large. Its production is carried out by the pancreas, and it ensures the supply of glucose, amino acids and potassium to the cells, and also controls the maintenance of proper carbohydrate balance and is responsible for metabolic processes. The principle of operation is based on the opening of cell membranes, which is why the body is fed with glucose. The main indicator of the system’s operation is the level of insulin in the blood on an empty stomach, the level of which can vary between 3-27 µU/ml, and after eating - 6-35 µU/ml.

How insulin affects the body

As a rule, an adequate insulin value is 5.5 - 10 µU/ml. The highest permissible norm is 11.5 units, however, experts believe that this condition, whose name is “tolerance,” may signal initial stage diabetes mellitus diseases. In the event that hormones are not in normal quantity, then the cells become less sensitive to secretion. The type of diabetes and its treatment program will be determined by the results of the analysis.

A constant glucose level of 20vu/ml or more in the human body provokes the likelihood of death.

Sudden changes in insulin in the blood can cause abnormal brain function, symptoms of which may include the following:

headache;

Elevated insulin levels can result from blockage of lipase (an enzyme) that can break down fats in the body. This phenomenon causes the development of dandruff, impotence, trophic ulcers, increased oily hair, the development of seborrhea, the appearance of excess fat accumulation. Violations of lipid metabolism provoke the occurrence of cholesterol plaques, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. Some scientists believe that its level will influence the functioning of the kidneys and nervous system, proliferation of low-quality cells.

Increased level

It happens that the human body contains an excess amount of polypeptide hormones. This phenomenon can be observed under the following conditions:

• obesity;
• liver pathologies;
• genetic fructose intolerance;
• diabetes mellitus type 2;
• muscular dystrophy;
• pancreatic neoplasms, inflammatory processes;
• pregnancy.

Reduced level

It happens that the body has a low level of insulin on an empty stomach. This can happen under the following circumstances:

The lower limit after the fall may be due to the following factors:

• some diseases;
• development of type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods to increase insulin levels

In order to lower blood sugar concentrations, it is important that insulin is at sufficient levels. To increase this level, you can resort to insulin therapy and the use of sugar substitutes.

IN in this case special medications are used:

• Medcifvin. The drug helps in the process of restoring the functioning of the immune system and strengthening its functions, and helps restore hormonal levels.
• Livicin. This medicine helps in dilating blood vessels.
• Civilin. Taking the drug ensures the renewal of pancreatic cells. These cells help in the production of insulin in the blood, thereby increasing its levels.

Traditional medicine is often used for this purpose. The treatment process must be combined with adherence to a special low-carbohydrate nutrition program. The diet should be balanced and complete. You need to eat often, but the portions themselves should be small. Honey, semolina, potatoes, and rice must be excluded from the menu. Instead of these foods, it is important to include ones that will stimulate the pancreas. Among these healthy products include: blueberries, lean meat, kefir, parsley, apples, cabbage. This nutrition program will help lower blood sugar and increase insulin levels.

Electrophoresis and physiotherapy should be added to medication treatment.

Methods for lowering insulin levels

Initially, you should pay attention to nutrition. Products included in the diet must contain a minimum glycemic index. The body appreciates them because they take a long time to digest and break down gradually. As a result, sugar does not rise quickly.

There will be no sharp increase or decrease in all indicators if meals are taken 5-6 times, and you should not eat late in the evening.

The body will function better if it daily diet food will include fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and wholemeal bread products.

It is necessary to supply the body with all minerals and vitamins, which will also help reduce and normalize insulin levels. To do this you can resort to synthetic drugs or food product with their high content. For example, brewer's yeast and animal liver are a source of chromium, nuts, grains, buckwheat honey contain magnesium, and dairy products have a sufficient amount of calcium.

Many people know or guess that traditional methods treatments can help stabilize blood sugar levels, however, this method requires a preliminary consultation with an endocrinologist.

In case of difficulties, you can resort to treatment with medications or surgical treatment. Excessive insulin production may indicate a developing hormonally active formation - insulinoma, which is accompanied by hypoglycemic attacks. In this case, surgery is indicated, and its volume will be determined by the size of the tumor. In case of low-quality formation, chemotherapy is suggested.

But it is still worth saying that the effect of a hormone such as insulin on the body will primarily depend on lifestyle and nutrition.

Insulin

A protein hormone produced in the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. It affects metabolism in almost all tissues. The main effect of insulin is to reduce the concentration of glucose in the blood. In addition, insulin enhances the synthesis of fats and proteins and suppresses the breakdown of glycogen and fats. The normal concentration of immunoreactive insulin in the fasting blood ranges from 6 to 12.5 µU/ml. Lack of insulin production (congenital or acquired) leads to diabetes mellitus. An increase in insulin concentration in the blood is observed with tissue insulin resistance and underlies the development of metabolic syndrome. Insulin drugs are used as medicines with diabetes mellitus.

What do we know about insulin? If the body suddenly stops producing it, a person is doomed to lifelong injections. Indeed, artificial insulin for diabetes, replacing the hormone that has ceased to be produced, is a salvation for the sick. Modern pharmaceuticals offer high-quality drugs that can completely replace the natural production of insulin and provide a high quality of life for the patient. Gone are ordinary syringes and large bottles of medicine, from which it is so difficult to draw the right dose. Today, administering insulin is not difficult, because the medicine is available in convenient syringe pens with a dispenser, and sometimes patients are even equipped with a special pump, where portions of the medicine are measured and enter the bloodstream automatically.

Why is insulin so important? It regulates the level of glucose in human blood, and it is glucose that is the main source of energy for the body. The action of insulin is very multifaceted and well studied by modern science.

Insulin in the human body

Hormone insulin

Human insulin is produced by special cells (beta cells) of the pancreas. These cells are mostly located in the tail of the gland and are called islets of Langerhans. They are located in the pancreas. Insulin is primarily responsible for regulating blood glucose levels. How does this happen?

• With the help of insulin, the permeability of the cell membrane improves, and glucose easily passes through it.
• Insulin is involved in the process of transferring glucose to glycogen stores in muscles and liver
• Insulin in the blood promotes the breakdown of glucose.
• It reduces the activity of enzymes that break down glycogen and fat.

A decrease in the production of insulin by the body's own cells leads to the development of type I diabetes mellitus. In this case, the beta cells themselves are irreversibly destroyed, where insulin should be produced during normal carbohydrate metabolism. A person with such diabetes requires constant administration of artificially synthesized insulin. If the hormone is produced in the required quantity, but cell receptors become insensitive to it, this indicates the development of type 2 diabetes. Insulin is not used for its treatment in the first stages, but as the disease progresses, the endocrinologist may prescribe insulin injections to reduce the load on the pancreas.

Until recently, the treatment of diabetic patients used a drug made from animal hormones, or modified animal insulin, in which one amino acid was replaced. The development of the pharmaceutical industry has made it possible to obtain high-quality drugs using genetic engineering. Insulins synthesized in this way do not cause allergies; successful correction of diabetes requires smaller doses.

Insulin production

Insulin production is a complex and multi-step process. First, the body synthesizes an inactive substance that precedes full-fledged insulin (preproinsulin), which then acquires an active form. The structure of preproinsulin is prescribed in a specific human chromosome. Simultaneously with its synthesis, a special L-peptide is formed, with the help of which preproinsulin passes through the cell membrane, turns into proinsulin and remains to mature in a special cellular structure (Golgi complex).

Maturation is the longest stage in the insulin production chain. During this period, proinsulin is broken down into insulin and C-peptide. The hormone then attaches to zinc, which is found in the body in ionic form.

The release of insulin from beta cells occurs after the amount of glucose in the blood increases. In addition, the secretion and release of insulin into the blood depends on the presence of certain hormones, fatty acids and amino acids, calcium and potassium ions in the plasma. Its production decreases in response to the release of another hormone - glucagon, which is also synthesized in the pancreas, but in its other cells - alpha cells.

The human autonomic nervous system also influences insulin secretion:

• The parasympathetic part influences the increase in the synthesis of the hormone insulin.
• Its sympathetic part is responsible for the inhibition of synthesis.

Action of insulin

The action of insulin is that it controls and regulates carbohydrate metabolism. This is achieved by increasing the permeability of cell membranes to glucose, which allows it to quickly enter the cell. Insulin in the body affects insulin-dependent tissues - muscle and fat. Together, these tissues make up 2/3 of the cell mass and are responsible for the most important vital functions (respiration, blood circulation).

The action of insulin is based on the work of a receptor protein located in the cell membrane. The hormone binds to the receptor and is recognized by it, triggering the work of a whole chain of enzymes. As a result of biochemical changes, protein kinase C is activated, affecting intracellular metabolism.

Human insulin affects whole line enzymes, but the main function of reducing the amount of blood glucose is realized due to:

• Increasing the ability of cells to absorb glucose.
• Activation of enzymes for glucose utilization.
• Acceleration of the formation of glucose reserves in the form of glycogen in liver cells.
• Reducing the intensity of glucose formation in the liver.

In addition, the action of insulin is that it:

• Increases the absorption of amino acids by cells.
• Improves the flow of potassium, phosphorus and magnesium ions into the cell.
• Increases the production of fatty acids.
• Promotes the conversion of glucose into triglycerides in the liver and adipose tissue.
• Improves DNA replication (reproduction).
• Reduces the flow of fatty acids into the bloodstream.
• Inhibits protein breakdown.

Sugar and insulin

Insulin in the blood directly affects the utilization of glucose. How does this happen in a healthy person? Normally, during a long break from eating, the level of glucose in the blood remains unchanged due to the fact that the pancreas produces small portions of insulin. Barely food rich in carbohydrates, enters the mouth, saliva decomposes them into simple glucose molecules, which are instantly absorbed into the blood through the oral mucosa.

The pancreas receives information that a large amount of insulin is needed to utilize incoming glucose, and it is taken from the reserves accumulated by the gland during the break in food. The release of insulin in this case is called the first phase of the insulin response.

As a result of the release, blood sugar decreases to normal, and the supply of the hormone in the pancreas is depleted. The gland begins to produce additional insulin, which slowly enters the blood - this is the second phase of the insulin response. Normally, insulin continues to be produced and released into the blood as food is digested. The body stores some of the glucose as glycogen in the muscles and liver. If glycogen has nowhere else to go, and unutilized carbohydrates remain in the blood, insulin causes them to turn into fats and be deposited in adipose tissue. When the amount of glucose in the blood begins to fall over time, the alpha cells of the pancreas will begin to produce glucagon, a hormone that is the opposite of insulin in its action: it tells the muscles and liver that it is time to turn glycogen stores into glucose, and thereby maintain blood sugar levels. normal. The body will replenish depleted glycogen reserves during the next meal.

It turns out that maintaining normal blood glucose levels is the result of hormonal regulation of the body, and there are two groups of hormones that have different effects on the amount of glucose:

• Insulin has a hypoglycemic effect - it reduces the amount of sugar in the blood by storing glucose in the form of glycogen in the liver and muscles. When glucose levels exceed a certain number, the body begins to produce insulin to utilize sugar.
• Glucagon is a hyperglycemic hormone produced in the alpha cells of the pancreas and converts liver and muscle glycogen stores into glucose.

Blood insulin level

Insulin: normal in women

A normal level of insulin in a woman’s blood indicates that the body is coping with the processing of glucose. A good fasting glucose level is from 3.3 to 5.5 mmol/l, insulin - from 3 to 26 µU/ml. The standards for elderly and pregnant women are slightly different:

Insulin levels must be taken into account when diagnosing diabetes mellitus: along with determining blood glucose, an insulin test allows you to understand whether the disease is present. In this case, both an increase and a decrease in the indicator relative to normal figures is important. Thus, increased insulin indicates that the pancreas is working idle, giving out extra doses of the hormone, and it is not absorbed by the body’s cells. A decrease in the amount of insulin means that the beta cells of the pancreas are not able to produce the required amount of the hormone.

Interestingly, in pregnant women, blood glucose and insulin levels have different norms. This is due to the fact that the placenta produces hormones that increase the amount of glucose in the blood, which provokes the release of insulin. As a result, the sugar level rises, it penetrates the placenta to the baby, forcing his pancreas to work harder and synthesize a lot of insulin. Glucose is absorbed and stored in the form of fat, the weight of the fetus increases, and this is dangerous for the course and outcome of future births - a large baby may simply get stuck in birth canal. To avoid this, women who experience an increase in the amount of insulin and glucose during pregnancy should be observed by a doctor and follow his prescription.

Insulin: normal in men

The insulin rate is the same for men and women, and is 3-26 µU/ml. The reason for the decrease in hormone secretion is the destruction of pancreatic cells. This usually happens at a young age, against the background of an acute viral infection (influenza) - the disease begins acutely, and patients are often hospitalized in a state of hypo- or hyperglycemic coma. The disease is autoimmune in nature (cells are destroyed under the influence of their own killer cells, which are formed due to disruptions in the immune system), and is called type 1 diabetes. Only lifelong administration of insulin and a special diet can help here.

When a man has elevated insulin levels, one may suspect the presence of pancreatic tumors, liver disease and adrenal glands. If the results of the examination reveal nothing, and an increase in insulin levels is accompanied by high levels of glucose in the blood, type 2 diabetes mellitus can be suspected. In this case, cell receptors lose sensitivity to insulin. Even though the pancreas produces it in large quantities, glucose cannot enter the cells through the cell membrane. Diabetes mellitus of the second type in the stronger sex appears with age; obesity, an unhealthy lifestyle, and bad habits contribute to it.

What troubles are caused by impaired production and absorption of insulin in men? Specific male problem diabetic - impotence. Due to the fact that glucose is not utilized correctly, an increased level of glucose is observed in the blood, and this has a bad effect on the blood vessels, impairs their patency and impairs erection. In addition, nerve damage develops (diabetic neuropathy), and the sensitivity of nerve endings decreases.

To avoid this delicate issue, diabetic men need to be observed by an endocrinologist, follow all his appointments, and regularly check the level of glucose and insulin in the blood.

Insulin levels in children (normal)

The norm of insulin in a child is from 3 to 20 µU/ml. In some diseases, both its increase and decrease may be observed:

• Type 1 diabetes is characterized by decreased insulin levels.

This type of disease is the main one in children. It begins, as a rule, at an early age, and is characterized by a rapid onset and a severe course. Beta cells die and stop producing insulin, so only hormone injections can save a sick child. The cause of the disease lies in congenital autoimmune disorders; the trigger can be any childhood infection. The disease begins with sudden weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. Sometimes children are admitted to the hospital already in a state of coma (when the body is unable to cope with sharp decline or increased insulin and blood glucose levels). In adolescents, the onset of the disease can be blurred, the latent period lasts up to 6 months, and during this time the child complains of headache, fatigue, and an indomitable desire to eat something sweet. Pustular rashes may appear on the skin. Treatment of type 1 childhood diabetes involves prescribing insulin injections to make up for the deficiency of your own hormones.

• In type 2 diabetes, hyperplasia of the islets of Langerhans, and insulinoma, the level of insulin in the blood increases.

Insulinoma and hyperplasia are quite rare, and type 2 diabetes is very common. It differs in that with increased insulin, blood sugar is not utilized and remains high due to impaired sensitivity of cell receptors. Treatment of the disease consists of restoring sensitivity through special medications, diet and exercise.

Increased insulin

High insulin levels in adults

In a healthy body, everything should be in balance. This also applies to carbohydrate metabolism, part of which is the production and utilization of insulin. Sometimes people mistakenly believe that increased insulin is even good: the body will not suffer from high blood glucose levels. In fact, it's not like that. Exceeding the level of insulin in the blood is just as harmful as its low level.

Why does such a violation occur? The cause may be a change in the structure and structure of the pancreas itself (tumor, hyperplasia), as well as diseases of other organs that disrupt carbohydrate metabolism (damage to the kidneys, liver, adrenal glands, etc.). However, most often high insulin becomes due to type 2 diabetes mellitus, when the pancreas works normally and the cells of the islets of Langerhans continue to synthesize the hormone normally. The reason for the increase in insulin is insulin resistance - a decrease in the sensitivity of cells to it. As a result, sugar from the blood cannot penetrate the cell membrane, and the body, trying to still deliver glucose into the cell, releases more and more insulin, which is why its concentration is always high. At the same time, impaired carbohydrate metabolism is only part of the problem: almost all type 2 diabetics have metabolic syndrome, when, in addition to high sugar, a person has high cholesterol in the blood, hypertension, heart disease. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes may be indicated by:

• Abdominal obesity, in which fat is deposited in the waist area.
• High blood pressure.
• An increase in the amount of “bad” cholesterol compared to the norm.

Researchers believe that the reason for the development of insulin resistance is genetics: it is assumed that resistance is a way for the body to survive in conditions of hunger, because impaired sensitivity of receptors to insulin allows one to store up fat in well-fed, prosperous times. However, the evolutionary advantage in the current conditions has turned into a problem: the body stores fat even when it is not needed - modern developed society has long forgotten about hunger, but people continue to eat with a reserve, which is then “deposited” on the sides.

Elevated insulin levels (hyperinsulinism) can be diagnosed using a blood test taken on an empty stomach - the normal value of the hormone in the blood plasma ranges from 3 to 28 µU/ml. Blood is taken strictly on an empty stomach, because after eating the amount of insulin changes sharply.

What to do if the test shows high insulin levels? First of all, you need to figure out the cause - the tactics of further treatment depend on this: for example, if the disorder is associated with the presence of insulinoma, the patient is offered surgical removal of the tumor. When the amount of the hormone increases due to diseases of the adrenal glands and their cortex, liver, pituitary tumors, it is necessary to fight these diseases - their remission will lead to a decrease in insulin levels. Well, if the cause of the disease is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism and diabetes mellitus, a special low-carbohydrate diet and medications aimed at improving the sensitivity of cells to insulin will help.

Increased insulin during pregnancy

Elevated insulin levels often occur during pregnancy - in this case they speak of the development of gestational diabetes mellitus. How dangerous is diabetes for mother and baby? The child may be very large, with overly developed shoulders, and this is dangerous for future births - the baby may get stuck in the birth canal. High insulin levels can cause fetal hypoxia. Mothers may subsequently develop normal diabetes mellitus that is not associated with pregnancy.

The risk of developing gestational diabetes increases:

• Diabetes in previous pregnancies
• Excess weight
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Presence of diabetes in the family

Why is there an increased level of insulin and impaired carbohydrate metabolism during pregnancy?

Under normal conditions, the amount of glucose in the blood is controlled by insulin, which is produced in the pancreas. Under its influence, glucose is absorbed by cells, and its level in the blood decreases. During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that cause sugar levels to rise. Glucose enters the baby’s bloodstream through the placenta, and his pancreas, trying to correct the situation, produces more and more insulin. In turn, the excessively secreted hormone promotes the rapid absorption of glucose and its conversion into fat deposits. As a result, the weight of the unborn baby grows at a rapid pace - fetal macrosomia occurs.

How does gestational diabetes manifest in a woman?

As a rule, he doesn't bother me at all expectant mother, and is detected by chance during routine tests, and especially a glucose tolerance test, which is performed during the weeks of pregnancy. Sometimes the disease manifests itself more clearly: attacks of severe hunger, constant thirst and excessive urination.

Gestational diabetes can be suspected by ultrasound of the fetus - advance in size and weight may indicate the development of the disease.

The normal level of insulin in blood plasma during pregnancy is 6-28 µU/ml, glucose – up to 5.1 mmol/l. Sometimes, in addition to these tests, a glycated hemoglobin test is prescribed - it shows how long a woman has been developing diabetes. Glycated hemoglobin is hemoglobin glued to glucose. It is formed when blood sugar levels are elevated for a long time (up to 3 months).

How to treat gestational diabetes mellitus?

First of all, the woman is prescribed a low-carbohydrate diet and self-monitoring of blood glucose levels with portable meters, on an empty stomach and after meals. Most disorders can be corrected by a reasonable diet with the exception of “ fast carbohydrates", regular meals and feasible physical activity (walking, swimming). Physical education is very important - because exercise provides the body with oxygen, improves metabolism, utilizes excess glucose and helps normalize the amount of insulin in the blood. But if these methods do not help, the expectant mother will receive insulin injections, which are allowed during pregnancy. As a rule, “short” insulins are prescribed before meals, and “long” insulins are prescribed before bedtime and in the morning. Medicines are used until the end of pregnancy, and after childbirth, gestational diabetes goes away on its own, and no further treatment is required.

High insulin levels in children

High insulin levels are a problem that also occurs in childhood. More and more children are suffering from obesity, the cause of which is poor nutrition, and parents sometimes do not think about how dangerous this is for the body. Of course, there are cases when an increase in insulin levels is associated with other circumstances: children, like adults, may have tumors and diseases of the pituitary gland, adrenal glands and their cortex, insulinomas. But more often, carbohydrate metabolism disorders are hereditary in nature, which is caused by poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and stress.

As a result, the child develops type 2 diabetes mellitus, in which, despite active work pancreas and insulin secretion, cells lose sensitivity to it. Unfortunately, doctors say that type 2 diabetes has become “younger” these days – more and more children are suffering from overweight, metabolic syndrome and carbohydrate metabolism disorders.

What to do if blood tests reveal a high level of insulin in a child? First, you need to exclude diseases that increase hormone production (insulinoma, hyperplasia of the islets of Langerhans, damage to the liver, pituitary gland and adrenal glands). If, after examination, these diseases are not identified, and there are signs of type 2 diabetes, treatment consists of restoring the sensitivity of cell receptors to insulin and reducing the load on the pancreas so that it is not exhausted from excessive hormone synthesis. This can be achieved with the help of special medications, a low-carbohydrate diet and exercise. Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism and obesity in a child are a reason to reconsider the menu and lifestyle of the whole family: yes to sports and proper nutrition, no – fast food and weekends on the couch.

Causes of elevated insulin levels

A person can have high insulin levels for various reasons. In medicine, excess hormone secretion is called “hyperinsulinism.” Depending on what caused it, they distinguish between primary and secondary form diseases:

Primary is associated with a lack of glucagon secretion and excess insulin production by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas. This happens in cases where:

• The pancreas is affected by a tumor that increases insulin production. As a rule, such tumors are benign and are called insulinomas.
• The islets of Langerhans grow in the gland, causing increased secretion human insulin.
• In alpha cells, glucagon secretion decreases.

The secondary form of the disorder is not associated with problems of the pancreas, and is explained by abnormalities in the functioning of the nervous system and impaired secretion of other hormones that affect carbohydrate metabolism. In addition, the cause of secondary (extrapancriotic) hyperinsulinism may be a change in the sensitivity of receptors sensitive to insulin. What disorders in the body can contribute to the development of hyperinsulinism?

• Pituitary gland diseases.
• Diseases (including benign and malignant tumors) adrenal glands, diseases of the adrenal cortex.
• Liver damage.
• Disturbance in carbohydrate metabolism. In this case, with increased insulin, blood sugar still remains high.
• Surgeries on the gastrointestinal tract (in particular, gastrectomy) can lead to carbohydrates being evacuated too quickly into the gastrointestinal tract. small intestine and are actively absorbed there, causing sharp increase the amount of sugar in the blood and the release of insulin.

The most common cause of hyperinsulinism today is impaired sensitivity of cellular receptors to insulin. Cells stop perceiving this hormone, and the body “does not understand” this and increases the production of insulin, which, however, does not reduce glucose in the blood - this is how type 2 diabetes is formed. As a rule, it is characteristic of middle-aged and older people, and accounts for more than 90% of all cases of diabetes. And if regarding type 1 diabetes we can say that a person was unlucky to be born with a defective gene responsible for the development of the disease, then type 2 diabetes is entirely the “merit” of the person himself: it develops in those who abuse fatty and sweet foods, leading sedentary life and has bad habits.

Decreased insulin levels

Reduced insulin levels in adults

A reduced level of insulin, as a rule, indicates the development of diabetes - due to a lack of the hormone, glucose is not utilized, but remains in the blood. A decrease in insulin levels in diabetes leads to unpleasant symptoms:

• Increased urination, increased amount of urine (especially at night). This is due to the fact that excess glucose from the blood is excreted into the urine, and glucose “takes” water with it, increasing the volume of urination.
• Feeling constant thirst(in this way the body tries to replenish fluid lost in urine).
• Hyperglycemia – increased amount of glucose: low insulin levels in the blood or complete absence Its production leads to the fact that glucose does not enter the cells, and they experience a deficiency. You can compensate for the lack of insulin with constant injections of insulin analogue drugs.

Causes of low insulin levels

The level of insulin in the blood can decrease due to many circumstances. To find out exactly why this happens, you need to contact an endocrinologist. The main reasons for decreased insulin production by the gland are:

• Unhealthy diet: containing a large amount of high-calorie foods and animal fats, “fast” carbohydrates (sugar, flour) in the diet. All this leads to the fact that the insulin produced by the pancreas is chronically insufficient to utilize incoming carbohydrates, and the body tries to increase its production, depleting beta cells.
• Non-compliance with diet (overeating).
• Decreased immunity due to infections and chronic diseases.
• Lack of sleep, worries, and stress contribute to a decrease in the amount of insulin produced by the body.
• Lack of active physical activity – because of this, the amount of sugar in the blood increases and at the same time the level of insulin decreases.

Insulin for diabetes

Diabetes mellitus type 1

Type 1 diabetes occurs in people young. This is an incurable disease, in which the patient can only be helped by regular insulin injections, simulating its natural production.

Scientists believe the cause of diabetes is hereditary predisposition to an autoimmune disorder, and the trigger can be an injury or a cold, due to which the process of destruction of the beta cells of the pancreas by its own killer cells begins. Thus, in type 1 diabetes, insulin either ceases to be synthesized at all, or it is not enough to utilize glucose.

How does the disease begin? The patient complains that he is quickly weakening and tired, has become irritable, frequently urinates and experiences extreme thirst, and is losing weight. Sometimes nausea and vomiting are added to the symptoms.

Without insulin treatment, a person may die from hyper- and hypoglycemia. In addition, excess blood sugar has a toxic effect on the body: blood vessels are damaged (especially kidney and eye vessels), blood circulation in the feet is disrupted and gangrene can occur, nerves are affected, and fungal diseases appear on the skin.

The only treatment option is to select doses of insulin that will replace the body’s natural synthesis of the hormone. An interesting fact is that when therapy is started, a so-called “honeymoon” occurs, when insulin levels normalize to such an extent that the patient can do without injections. Unfortunately, this period does not last long (largely because people stop following the diet and do not take the prescribed injections). If you approach treatment wisely, you can try to preserve as many of your own beta cells as possible, which will continue to synthesize insulin, and make do with a small number of injections.

Diabetes mellitus type 2

What is type 2 diabetes? In this type of diabetes, the body does not stop producing insulin, but the sensitivity of the receptors to it changes - insulin resistance occurs. As a rule, the disease develops slowly in people aged or older who are overweight. The causes of diabetes are considered to be:

• Hereditary predisposition to the development of metabolic syndrome and carbohydrate metabolism disorders.
• Unhealthy diet with a lot of “fast” carbohydrates.
• Lack of physical activity.

At the initial stage, insulin in diabetes is produced by the pancreas in normal quantities, but the tissues do not respond to it. The body increases the secretion of the hormone, and over time, the beta cells of the pancreas are depleted, and the person requires insulin injections, as in type 1 diabetes.

The disease usually does not have pronounced symptoms. Patients only complain about itching and the presence of fungal infections, and they turn to the doctor when diabetes is complicated by retinopathies, neuropathy and kidney problems.

At the onset of the disease, diet and exercise can help the patient. Typically, weight loss causes the receptors to become insulin sensitive again. Despite the fact that type 2 diabetes is called insulin-independent, the patient may subsequently need to take human insulin - this happens when beta cells are depleted from excess hormone synthesis.

Treatment with insulin

Types of insulin preparations

Insulin treatment is the main therapy for diabetics. Depending on how the drug is synthesized, there are:

• Bovine insulin - it can produce strong allergic reactions, since the protein composition differs significantly from human.
• Preparations obtained from pig pancreas. They can also be allergenic, although they differ from human insulin in just one amino acid.
• Analogues of the human hormone insulin - they are obtained by replacing the amino acid in pork insulin.
• Genetically modified drugs - the hormone is “extracted” through synthesis by E. coli.

Analogs and genetically modified drugs are the best choice for insulin treatment because they do not cause allergies and provide a stable therapeutic effect. You can see the composition of the medicine on the packaging: MS - monocomponent, NM - analogue or genetically modified. Labeling with numbers shows how many units of the hormone are contained in 1 ml of the drug.

Insulins differ not only in origin, but also in duration of action:

• “Fast” or ultra-short - they begin to work immediately after administration.

The maximum effect is observed after 1-1.5 hours, the duration of action is 3-4 hours. They are administered either before meals or immediately after. The ultra-short type of insulin includes Novorapid and Insulin Humalog.

• “Short” ones are effective half an hour after administration, peak activity after 2-3 hours, and in total they last up to 6 hours.

Such drugs are administered one minute before meals. During peak activity times, you need to plan an extra snack. An example of “short” insulin is Insulin Actrapid, Insuman Rapid.

• “Medium” – act for a period of time, begin to work 2-3 hours after administration, peak – after 6-8 hours.

Such medications are administered 2-3 times a day. An example of drugs is Protafan, Insulin Humulin NPH.

• “Long” – has a prolonged effect and is an analogue of basal (background) insulin production.

It is administered 1-2 times a day. Some drugs are called “peakless” because they do not have a pronounced peak of activity and completely imitate the production of the hormone in healthy people. Peakless insulins include Levemir and Lantus.

In this preparation, doses of long-acting and short-acting insulin are already mixed in one syringe, so the patient needs to give fewer injections. Medicines differ in the proportions in which the two types of insulin are mixed. The specific type of drug, depending on the proportion, should be selected by an endocrinologist. An example of a combined type of insulin is Novomix.

Insulin injections

Insulin injections are an integral part of the life of a person with type 1 diabetes. How well a person does them depends on how well he feels and the degree of compensation for the disease. The medicine is usually injected into the subcutaneous fat - this ensures its uniform absorption into the blood. The most convenient places for injections are the abdomen (except for the navel area), buttocks, the front surface of the thigh and the outside of the shoulder. In every part of the body, insulin enters the bloodstream from at different speeds: slowest - if it is inserted into the front of the thigh, fastest - from the abdominal area. In this regard, “short” drugs should be injected into the stomach and shoulder, and doses of long-acting insulin should be injected into the upper lateral part of the buttock or thigh. If the drug Novorapid or Lantus is used, injections can be made in any of the listed areas.

You should not give insulin injections in the same place and at a distance less than 2 cm from the previous injection. Otherwise, fatty compactions may appear, due to which the medicine is less absorbed into the blood. The injection procedure consists of several stages:

• You need to wash your hands with soap.
• Wipe your skin with an alcohol wipe (if you do not shower daily).
• The syringe with extended-release insulin should be turned over several times, but not shaken, for better mixing.
• Then you should dial the required dose of insulin by scrolling the dial in a circle to the left to the desired number.
• Make a fold of skin and insert the needle at an angle of 45-90º, press the piston and wait 15 seconds.
• Slowly and carefully pull out the needle to prevent the medicine from leaking out of the puncture.

To ensure optimal levels of insulin in the blood, the dose of drugs and the number of injections must be selected together with an endocrinologist. Typically, the following schemes are used:

• Three injections (breakfast, lunch, dinner) of “short” insulin, and one or two (morning and evening) of “long” insulin. This treatment best mimics the gland's natural production of insulin, but requires frequent blood glucose measurements to determine the appropriate dose of medication.
• Two injections (“short” and “long” insulin) before breakfast and dinner. In this case, strict adherence to the diet and eating according to the clock is required.

If the patient is ill with ARVI or influenza, frequent administration of “short” insulin may be necessary, since the production of the hormone is inhibited during a viral infection.

Rules for administering insulin

Insulin administration must be carried out in accordance with certain rules:

• Syringes with medicine should be stored at room temperature. If long-acting insulin is used, it must be mixed by turning the syringe pen.
• The choice of injection site depends on what type of insulin is being injected (“short” should be injected into places where it is absorbed quickly, “long” - where it is absorbed slowly).
• You cannot give injections at the same point - this leads to the formation of compactions in the subcutaneous fat and impairs the absorption of the drug.
• After removing the cap, you need to attach the needle to the syringe pen in accordance with the instructions. It is advisable to use a new needle with each new injection.
• If there is a large air bubble in the syringe, tap the barrel with the needle pointing upward to make the bubble pop up, and then release a few units of medication into the air. Small bubbles do not need to be removed.
• The dose of the drug is set by turning the syringe regulator in accordance with the instructions.
• For correct administration insulin, you need to make a skin fold in the desired area, and then insert the needle at an angle of 45 to 90 degrees. After this, you should smoothly and slowly press the syringe button, count to 20, and carefully pull it out, first releasing the fold of skin.

Insulin in the treatment of diabetes mellitus

Insulin treatment is the main way to ensure normal life diabetic patient. For therapy to bring the desired effect, it must be prescribed by an endocrinologist. Independent selection of medications and dosage can threaten your health!

The goal of insulin treatment is to completely replace artificial introduction drugs lost their own hormone production. To do this, the doctor selects medications that will best act on the patient’s body. The patient, in turn, must take the treatment responsibly: follow a diet, diet and insulin administration.

Fortunately, the current level of development of medicine allows the patient to manage full life: combination and long acting, you can use pumps. At the same time, the idea has taken root in the minds of many: if you start taking insulin injections, this means recognizing yourself as disabled. In fact, proper insulin therapy is the key to ensuring that a person does not develop serious complications of diabetes that lead to disability. Adequate treatment makes it possible to “unload” the remaining beta cells and relieve them from the harmful effects of chronically elevated blood glucose. Over time, the patient may need smaller doses of insulin.

Diet

Diet for low insulin levels

Low levels of insulin in the human body are characteristic of diabetes mellitus. Treatment of diabetes requires a low-carbohydrate diet (table No. 9 according to Pevzner). What are the nutritional rules for this diet?

• The diet should be balanced and its caloric content reduced.
• If there is a lack of insulin, sugar does not have time to be utilized in the blood, so you need to limit the amount of quickly digestible carbohydrates, and some of them should be eliminated altogether: semolina, potatoes, white rice, sugar and honey will not benefit a diabetic.
• As prescribed by your doctor, you can use xylitol, sorbitol, fructose and other sweeteners instead of sugar. They are generally absorbed more slowly than glucose and allow for better blood sugar control.
• Meals should be small and frequent, and portions should be small. The optimal number of meals is at least five times, and each time you should try to eat approximately the same amount of carbohydrates.
• It is necessary to include a large amount of fiber in the diet, which gives a feeling of fullness and promotes better utilization of fats and carbohydrates. Fiber is found mainly in raw vegetables: cucumbers, cabbage, tomatoes, zucchini.
• Since impaired production and absorption of the hormone insulin is usually accompanied by disorders of fat metabolism, the menu should contain foods that have a lipotropic (fat-breaking) effect: cottage cheese, lean fish, beef, oatmeal.
• You need to avoid dishes high in animal fat, fried foods, and rich broths.

Diet for high insulin levels

An increased level of insulin in the blood indicates that the pancreas is producing it in excess. In this case, the sensitivity of cellular receptors to it may be impaired - this happens when metabolic syndrome when a person simultaneously has diabetes mellitus, obesity, lipid metabolism disorders, heart and vascular disease, and hypertension. The body produces insulin in vain, unnecessarily stimulating the pancreas. How to correct such a violation? Doctors usually prescribe medications, exercise and diet. The basic principles of the diet are:

• Limiting “fast” carbohydrates, which cause increased insulin production in the body. It is best to completely exclude them, giving preference to “slow” carbohydrates: brown rice, durum wheat pasta, buckwheat, whole grain bread.
• Control portion sizes - the amount of food per meal should be small, you need to eat often (4-6 times a day).
• If possible, it is better to use sweeteners instead of sugar.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Drink a lot ordinary water, completely quench your thirst.
• Reduce the amount of salt you eat (both in dishes and in pure form).
• Avoid products with high content sodium (salted nuts, sausage, canned food).

What dishes should be in the diet of a person who has high insulin?

• Lean meat (preferably beef).
• Low-fat dairy and fermented milk products, cottage cheese.
• Eggs in small quantities.
• Whole grains and cereals.
• Vegetables that do not contain starch: cabbage, pumpkin, broccoli, tomatoes, etc.
• Greenery.
• Fruits with a low glycemic index.

Preventing high and low insulin levels

If insulin in the body is produced in insufficient or, conversely, excessive quantities, this leads to changes in blood glucose levels. And although tall and low sugar have different symptoms, regulation of carbohydrate metabolism requires compliance with certain rules:

• If you suffer from impaired insulin production and absorption, get a bracelet or put a note in your wallet so that others can quickly react and provide assistance.
• Regularly see an endocrinologist and follow the prescribed treatment.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it causes sudden changes in blood sugar levels.
• Try to lead a calm, measured lifestyle - after all, as you know, the production of the hormone insulin is suppressed during stress. In addition, people under stress can treat their own health with a disregard for the principle “it can’t get any worse anyway,” causing great damage.
• Regularly check your blood sugar with portable devices (glucometers) - this way you can assess whether the body can cope with the load, or whether the current dose of medication needs to be changed. Controlling glucose levels will help avoid life-threatening conditions such as hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic coma.
• Be smart about physical activity. You should not set sports records, because insulin production does not change during exercise, but glucose utilization accelerates, and blood sugar levels can drop to an unacceptably low level. You can combat this by eating a small amount of carbohydrate food before starting exercise, or by taking less insulin during meals (if you are prescribed insulin therapy).
• Don't neglect preventive vaccinations, the purpose of which is to protect the body from influenza and pneumococcal infection, because during illness, hormones are produced that block the production and absorption of insulin in the body, and this has a bad effect on health and aggravates the course of diabetes.

Produced by the pancreas, insulin is perhaps the most popular hormone. Literally every schoolchild knows that with low insulin, blood sugar increases, and type 1 diabetes occurs. Increased insulin levels may also occur initial sign diabetes, when the pancreas mistakes poor absorption of the hormone by tissues for its absolute lack, and begins to produce it even in excess - this is how type 2 diabetes appears.

Treatment of diseases associated with a lack or excess of insulin varies and depends on the specific cause:

• If there is a deficiency of the hormone, insulin therapy is prescribed.
• In cases of excessive insulin secretion and lack of tissue sensitivity to it, medications that reduce insulin resistance are used.

It is important to remember: a violation of insulin production in itself is not a death sentence, but a reason to contact an endocrinologist for qualified help and change your habits to healthier ones. It is unacceptable to self-medicate and experiment with dosages and medications - all therapy should be prescribed by a doctor depending on the medical history and characteristics of the health condition.

Diabetes mellitus is a very common “disease”, but even with this disease today you can be a full-fledged person. No more carrying around with jars, bottles and syringes. You can give an injection through a special pen with a dispenser. Today everything is treated, everything is stopped - if only there was money!

My friend’s son really loves soda, sweets, and cakes, and at the age of 15 he has diabetes!

Mom didn’t tell him anything, he should have given her this article to read, but it’s too late! I’m reposting it so my friends can read it and follow their children. This terrible disease should not affect our children.

Interesting article. Once he's hooked on insulin, he won't get off it.

Very interesting and useful article. Still, we need to take more care of our health. Take care of him.

People with diabetes cannot live without insulin! This is a very serious disease, God forbid you get sick!

The main thing in the life of a diabetic is not to give up and not become discouraged!

On my own behalf, I will say that insulin is not as scary as it is made out to be. High sugar is much worse.

It’s a pity for patients with type 1 diabetes, because insulin injections are an integral part of their lives.

After reading this article, I learned that insulin regulates the level of glucose in a person’s blood, and it is glucose that is the main source of energy for the body.

No matter how much you would like to eat everything tasty and unhealthy, you would like to avoid diabetes more. So you need to limit yourself in eating sugary, salty, fatty, floury and all that kind of stuff.

First of all, you need to eat right, less sweets, more fruits.

The disease is very often inherited. So you need to be very careful about your diet and lifestyle if anyone in your family has suffered from this disease.

A very common disease. I was diagnosed 3 years ago. At first I took pills, now I switched to training. So far I have managed to keep my sugar levels normal, but I periodically undergo checks and consultations with a doctor.

Now I see that so many young people have diabetes, probably all because poor nutrition and lifestyle

Diabetes has become younger these days. It’s hard for people who have diabetes, because they strict diet. And children are surrounded by a lot of different sweets, which lead directly to this disease. The article describes in an accessible form what insulin is, its functions in the body, about diabetes and its stages. An educational article for everyone. After all, no one is immune from diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is, unfortunately, a daily occurrence for many, and often for young people. Important information in the article is presented in a very accessible manner.

I never knew about diabetes and read the article about what people need to do when they are sick

Many people suffer from diabetes and the article will help them. I even read it just to know for myself

• Check your symptoms;
• Find out about possible diseases;
• Prevent illness.

Check symptoms

• Database of questions and answers;

Excessive consumption of high-calorie foods may not always cause the development of obesity. The entire process of accumulation (or non-accumulation) of fat reserves in the human body is associated with the production of insulin.

This hormone is secreted by the pancreas and is normally necessary to perform tasks important for normal functioning and to control weight.

In addition, it is insulin that directly affects sugar, which is constantly contained in the blood, helping it penetrate into all tissues and organs of the human body.

If the glucose concentration is excessively high, then insulin will help prevent complications of this condition, for example, control excess weight and obesity. This problem is especially relevant for type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is with this form of the disease that weight problems arise.

To prevent excess weight, you also need to know which foods can contribute to it.

The effect of carbohydrates on weight

Not every diabetic can know what happens to his body at the moment when he eats a small piece of white wheat bread premium. When considering this issue, it should be noted that bread is primarily a carbohydrate containing starch.

It can be digested quite quickly and converted into glucose, which becomes blood sugar and is distributed to all organs and systems.

At this moment, the body immediately undergoes a state of one of the stages of hyperglycemia (a pathological condition when the sugar in the blood rises sharply to high levels, and insulin cannot cope with it).

It is important to separately note that at this moment the pancreas of a healthy person reacts to glucose and releases insulin into the blood as quickly as possible, which is capable of performing several of its functions at once:

• creates a reserve vital energy However, this period is extremely short;
• sharply lowers the concentration of sugar in the blood, causing it to flow not into all organs, but only into those that urgently need it.

In diabetes mellitus, these processes occur inadequately.

Eating carbohydrates with fats

Developing the topic of bread, it is necessary to consider its use with butter as an example of carbohydrates with fats. As already noted, bread is a carbohydrate that is converted into glucose. Oil is a lipid. During the digestion process, it will become a fatty acid, which, just like sugar, will enter the bloodstream. The level of sugar in a person’s blood will also immediately increase, and the pancreas will stop this process as soon as possible by producing the hormone insulin.

If this organ is in good condition, then just enough insulin will be produced to neutralize excess sugar. Otherwise (if there are problems with the pancreas and diabetes is diagnosed), the hormone insulin will be produced in insufficient quantities than necessary.

As a result, part of the fat energy that comes from food will definitely be stored in reserve, in other words, in fatty tissue. In subsequent stages this process will become main reason that excess weight will appear.

It is a diseased and weakened pancreas that can explain the development of obesity or simply unwanted weight gain in diabetes. If a person is relatively healthy, then this pathological process is not scary for him, because the consumed carbohydrates and fats will be fully processed without causing excessive weight.

Hyperinsulism is the tendency of a certain person to develop obesity.

Eating fats separately from other foods

Continuing with the dietary examples, one should consider eating lipids only, e.g. hard cheese. If individual fats enter the body, they will not affect blood glucose levels and insulin. The pancreas itself will not produce an inadequate amount of the hormone and the process of converting substances into excess energy will not begin.

Despite this, it cannot be said that the lipid eaten will in no way affect the body. This can be explained by the fact that during the digestion process the body will extract all possible elements from the food consumed, for example:

1. vitamins;
2. microelements;
3. mineral salts.

Thanks to this mechanism, vital substances that are essential for adequate energy metabolism will be obtained.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the pancreas plays a key role in the matter of weight. If a person is healthy, then she copes with her mission perfectly and does not cause him any discomfort, maintaining a normal weight.

Otherwise, there are significant problems with the production of the hormone insulin or even its ineffectiveness. The pancreas can promote the deposition of fatty acids obtained from food into the reserve depot. As a result, a gradual increase in weight begins and obesity develops.

If a diabetic does not monitor his diet and consumes sugar-containing foods, this can become a direct prerequisite for the development of diabetes. Ultimately, this can lead to insulin not being produced on its own.