Incretins are hormones produced in the gut that help regulate blood sugar levels after eating. They stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin, which lowers blood sugar, and they also reduce the amount of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar. This process helps maintain stable glucose levels in the body. Two main incretins are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP). These hormones are released in response to food intake and play a crucial role in the body's metabolic response. Incretins are important for managing conditions like type 2 diabetes, where insulin regulation is impaired.