How does insulin effect carbohydrate metabolism?

Insulin plays a vital role in metabolism:

1. It is widely referred to as the 'blood clearing' hormone because it promotes the uptake of glucose into cells. Cells can then use this glucose to produce energy, or as part of other structures and secretions.
2. In liver cells, it also promotes the conversion of glucose into glycogen so that it can be stored for later.
3. It also promotes the synthesis of fatty acids.
4. It prevents the breakdown of fat.
5. It promotes protein synthesis.