Health : Insulin and Obesity (Dr. 'Robert H. Lustig')

* Insulin : a hormone produced by beta cells of the pancreas. It is released by the pancreas in response to carbohydrates consumed in the diet.

Insulin regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein by promoting the absorption of glucose from the blood into liver, fat and skeletal muscle cells.

High glucose in the blood promotes insulin production while low glucose levels lead to lower production. Insulin enhances glucose uptake and metabolism in the cells, thereby reducing blood sugar level.

* Leptin : a hormone predominantly made by body fat. Leptin levels influence appetite and satiety.

High leptin levels are interpreted by the brain that energy reserves are high, whereas low leptin levels indicate that energy reserves are low.

* Insulin Resistance : In states of insulin resistance, insulin is still being secreted by the pancreas in response to carbohydrates being consumed in the diet, BUT it (insulin) does not have the expected effect on glucose transport and blood sugar levels.

insulin does not push glucose into the cells as it ought to normally do.

* Diabetes Type I : originates when cells that make insulin (beta cells) are destroyed by the immune system.

* Diabetes Type II : is characterized by insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and relative lack of insulin.