In addition to the two known basic pathologies, increased insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, it has recently been understood that a decrease in incretin hormone secretion also plays an important role in the formation of type 2 diabetes. The word incretin is derived from the words “Intestinal Secretion of Insulin”.

Basically, GLP-1 and GIP are known as incretin hormones and are responsible for 70% of postprandial insulin secretion. GLP-1 is secreted from L cells in the ileum after food intake. It increases glucose-dependent insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells. Thus, β-cell response increases and β-cell workload decreases. It reduces glucagon release from pancreatic α-cells and postprandial glucose secretion decreases. It also reduces hepatic glucose output. These help improve blood sugar. Apart from these, it increases the feeling of fullness and reduces the feeling of hunger through its effect on the brain. It helps regulate gastric emptying through its effects on the stomach.