Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotrophic polypeptide (GIP) are incretin hormones secreted from intestinal cells in response to incoming nutrients. The release of these incretins triggers the production and secretion of insulin from pancreatic β cells, which upregulates the transport of glucose from the blood stream into the muscles, liver and adipose tissue for storage; therefore, insulin and incretins are vital to maintaining energy homeostasis within the body. Recently, it has been recognized that the activity of these hormones is not limited to the periphery, but extends to the central nervous system (CNS) as well. Within the CNS, insulin and incretins function as components of the anti-apoptotic and growth-regulating signaling cascades. Moreover, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective roles for these hormones in the CNS have also been demonstrated. Specific discoveries have been made suggesting that insulin, GLP-1 and GIP may inhibit pathological processes in several CNS diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia.