What happens to insulin levels after a meal?

• A. Levels decrease
• B. Levels remain constant
• C. Levels increase
• D. Levels fluctuate unpredictably

Answer: (C)

After a meal, insulin levels increase in response to the rise in blood glucose levels that occurs when food is digested and absorbed. When one eats, especially foods high in carbohydrates, glucose enters the bloodstream. In response, the pancreas secretes insulin to facilitate the uptake of glucose by cells for energy or storage as glycogen and fat. This insulin response peaks shortly after eating and helps to lower blood glucose levels back to a normal range.

The physiological role of insulin is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, particularly after meals. As such, an increase in insulin levels is a predictable and essential part of the metabolic response to food consumption.