Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What role do incretins play in glucose metabolism for individuals with diabetes?

1. They help increase insulin secretion

2. They suppress glucagon release

3. They delay gastric emptying

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Incretins are hormones that play a significant role in glucose metabolism, especially in individuals with diabetes. They contribute to several physiological processes that help regulate blood sugar levels. Incretins, such as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide), stimulate the pancreas to secrete insulin in response to food intake. This insulin secretion aids in lowering blood glucose levels after meals. Therefore, the role of incretins in increasing insulin secretion is vital in glucose management. Additionally, incretins work to suppress the release of glucagon, a hormone that typically raises blood glucose levels by promoting the liver's release of glucose. By inhibiting glucagon release, incretins help to ensure that glucose levels do not rise excessively when food is consumed. Furthermore, incretins contribute to delaying gastric emptying. This delay allows for a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing sharp spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. Taking all these factors into account, incretins have a multifaceted role in glucose metabolism that includes increasing insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release, and delaying gastric emptying. Therefore, the comprehensive nature of their effects culminates in the correct answer being that