Final answer:
Insulin is stored in the pancreas and is released to decrease blood glucose levels after they rise, such as after a meal. It facilitates the uptake and storage of glucose in cells, converting it to glycogen or fat, and inhibits glucose production by the liver.
Step-by-step explanation:
Insulin and Glucose Regulation
Insulin is a hormone crucial for the regulation of blood glucose levels. It is produced and stored in the beta cells of the pancreas. When blood glucose levels rise, such as after eating a meal, insulin is released into the bloodstream. The primary role of insulin is to help maintain normal blood glucose levels by enhancing the uptake and utilization of glucose by cells, particularly muscle and liver cells, where it can be converted to glycogen for storage. Insulin facilitates the entry of glucose into cells by increasing the number of glucose transporter proteins in cell membranes. It also reduces the production of glucose by the liver and stimulates the conversion of glucose to fat in adipocytes.
Insulin is not stored in the liver, hypothalamus, or gallbladder, nor is it released to increase blood glucose levels or regulate lipid digestion specifically. Its release signifies the body's effort to lower blood glucose levels after they have become elevated.
The correct answer to the question of where insulin is stored and why it would be released is 'a) Insulin is stored in the pancreas and released to decrease blood glucose levels.' Insulin acts by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells, thereby decreasing the glucose levels in the blood.