The Different Body Parts Insulin Stimulates

4. Protein Metabolism

Insulin is well known for its role in carbohydrate synthesis, but it is also needed to metabolize protein and transport amino acids. Insulin increases the rate of amino acids to some tissues, especially those that have been injured. It also enhances protein synthesis in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissues, as well as in other tissues throughout the body. Insulin prevents proteins from being broken down in muscle and maybe even in tissue, which helps stabilize muscle strength and ensures the body uses carbohydrates instead of protein for energy.

3. Absorption Of Amino Acids And Potassium

Amino acid and potassium supplementation would be greatly decreased without insulin to help absorb it into the bloodstream. Insulin increases the permeability of many cells to potassium. In other words, it allows potassium to cross over cellular membrane into cells where it is needed for many functions. When amino acid levels are low, such as in a state of fasting, insulin helps stimulate the uptake of amino acids by pushing the balance toward intracellular protein degradation, or the breakdown of protein into amino acids.