Insulin

An anabolic peptide hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets. Its primary function is to regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and protein by promoting the absorption of glucose from the blood into liver, fat, and skeletal muscle cells. In these tissues, the glucose is either converted into glycogen or fats (triglycerides) for storage.

Insulin is the body's master storage hormone. When insulin levels are high, the body is in 'storage mode,' and the burning of stored fat is inhibited. Conversely, when insulin levels are low, such as during fasting or on a low-carbohydrate diet, the body can access and burn stored fat for energy. Managing insulin levels is therefore the cornerstone of effective weight loss and metabolic repair.