What controls blood sugar?

The primary hormone that controls blood sugar levels is insulin, which is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. After a meal, when the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream rises, the pancreas releases insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin binds to specific receptors on the surface of cells in the liver, muscle, and fat tissue, allowing glucose to enter these cells and be utilized as an energy source or stored for later use.

* Insulin stimulates the uptake of glucose by cells in the liver, muscle, and fat tissue. This process is called glucose transport. Glucose is then used for energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle, or as triglycerides in fat tissue.

* Glucagon, another hormone produced by the pancreas, counteracts the effects of insulin and raises blood sugar levels when they drop too low. Glucagon stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen back into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream.

* Other hormones, such as cortisol, adrenaline, and growth hormone, can also affect blood sugar levels. Cortisol and adrenaline raise blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release glucose, while growth hormone decreases insulin sensitivity, leading to higher blood sugar levels.