Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Peptide
Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Peptide (GIP) is a hormone produced in the intestines that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels. It is released in response to food intake, particularly when carbohydrates and fats are consumed. GIP stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin, which helps lower blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.
In addition to its insulin-releasing effects, GIP also influences fat metabolism and promotes the storage of fat in adipose tissue. This hormone is part of the incretin family, which includes other hormones like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), both of which enhance insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner.