when carbohydrate is consumed, it causes blood sugar to rise. this rise in blood glucose causes the brain to send a signal to the pancreas to release the hormone insulin. the pancreas is a glandular organ containing beta cells that produce and secrete insulin. it is located behind the stomach (in the area below your left breast). the pancreas also produces other hormones (glucagon, somatostatin, and amylin) and enzymes that help regulate blood sugar and digest foods.