Insulin

Insulin

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. It regulates metabolism, including carbohydrate metabolism. It is released in response to an increase in blood glucose levels after a meal.

Glucose is a simple sugar obtained as a result of the digestion of complex carbohydrates (sugars), which are one of the components of food. Glucose is absorbed and transported throughout the body via the bloodstream. However, for glucose to enter cells, insulin is required.

Insulin can be supplemented in cases of deficiency, but always under medical supervision.

Blood insulin level

Insulin performs many important functions in the body. One of them is regulating the rate at which glucose is used by body tissues; insulin lowers blood glucose levels. Another role of this hormone is supporting the conversion of carbohydrates into fats and the synthesis of proteins.

Insulin deficiency or absence may lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.

The test involves drawing blood from a vein, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What does the test diagnose?

Measurement of insulin concentration is performed:

• to assess the body’s sensitivity to insulin and confirm insulin resistance,
• in the diagnosis of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar levels);
• as an auxiliary test in diagnosing insulinoma (a tumour originating from pancreatic islet cells).

When is it worth testing insulin levels?

• excessive thirst,
• frequent urination,
• markedly increased appetite,
• weight loss without changes in diet or lifestyle,
• general weakness,
• excessive daytime sleepiness,
• tendency to frequent infections, e.g. urinary tract infections,
• excess body weight or obesity,
• long-term exposure to stress,
• insufficient physical activity,
• a diet based on highly processed foods, rich in simple sugars and saturated fats,
• a predominantly sedentary daily lifestyle.

Insulin resistance

In insulin resistance, the body’s cells become insensitive to the action of insulin; glucose cannot enter them and its excess accumulates in the bloodstream. Insulin resistance is directly associated with diabetes.

Risk factors

• positive family history (type 2 diabetes in the family)
• metabolic syndrome
• polycystic ovary syndrome
• history of gestational diabetes
• giving birth to a child weighing more than 4 kg
• fatty liver disease
• cardiovascular diseases
• thyroid disorders

Abdominal obesity also increases the risk of insulin resistance.

Other tests performed as part of the diagnostic process include:

1. fasting blood glucose level
2. oral glucose tolerance test

In addition, tests such as a lipid profile and CRP measurement are often performed.

Preparation for an insulin test

Proper preparation for the test is very important, as incorrect adherence to the procedure may result in the insulin test not being performed or the obtained result being unreliable.

A few days before the insulin test

• Do not consume alcohol for 2–3 days prior to the test.
• Avoid drinking coffee and tea for at least 12 hours before blood collection.
• If possible, avoid stress, as it may stimulate the body to produce insulin.

On the day of the blood insulin test

Remain fasting for approximately 12 hours before the test. In the morning, you may drink water, up to one glass. Blood is collected in the morning hours. Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, blood should be drawn before taking the morning dose of medications. Immediately before the blood draw, rest in a seated position for 10–15 minutes.

• • The blood draw itself takes up to several seconds.
  • Procedures related to blood collection – skin disinfection, application of a tourniquet, and pressure applied to the puncture site after completion – take a few minutes.
  • There are no contraindications to performing the test.

Insulin test reference ranges

The normal insulin level depends on the conditions under which the test was performed – different values apply for fasting measurements and for tests conducted after a meal. In addition, reference ranges may vary between laboratories, therefore each result should be interpreted individually by a physician. In the case of abnormal results, a medical consultation is recommended to discuss them in detail.

Fasting insulin result

1. Test results are available within 1 working day.
2. The results can be collected at the reception desk of the previously selected Medical Centre.

After having the test performed at a Medicover Medical Centre, you can access your results online.

1. Download the Medicover OnLine app from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Log in to the app using secure online banking authentication or collect your app password at the reception desk of the Medicover Medical Centre during your visit to the collection point.

Factors that may affect the test result

• use of certain medications,
• alcohol consumption,
• stress.

Which specialist should you consult in case of abnormal results?

• Endocrinologist
• Internist
• Diabetologist