Insulin is primarily known for regulating blood glucose, but it also plays a role in gut health. It influences intestinal barrier function, motility, and possibly the microbiome. However, the evidence is mostly mechanistic and indirect – direct clinical studies on gut health in humans are scarce. Elevated insulin levels (e.g., in insulin resistance) are associated with impaired barrier function and increased permeability, which may promote inflammation. Additionally, insulin can affect gut bacterial composition, but effects are individual and diet-dependent. The provided context contains no specific data on insulin and gut health. Therefore, the evidence is limited. For a robust assessment, direct human studies are needed. Note: None of the cited sources address insulin; this answer is based on general physiological knowledge.
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