Insulin is a hormone that is central to regulating energy and glucose metabolism in the body. Insulin causes cells in the liver, muscle, and fat tissue to take up glucose from the blood, storing it as glycogen in the liver and muscle. Insulin also influences other body functions, such as vascular compliance and cognition. Once insulin enters the human brain, it enhances learning and memory and in particular benefits verbal memory.

Elevated insulin can cause:

• High blood pressure
• Blood fat abnormalities
• Abnormal immune system functioning
• Acne
• Ankle swelling
• Burning feet
• Constipation
• Decreased memory or concentration
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Fluctuating high blood pressure readings
• Fuzzy brain
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Irritablility
• Sugar cravings
• Water retention
• Weight gain, especially around the middle