blood glucose

Blood glucose

The level of glucose in the blood

Pancreas

The organ that monitors blood glucose concentration and produces insulin

Insulin

Hormone produced by the pancreas which lowers blood sugar

Glucose

A simple carbohydrate that is essential for respiration but can have negative effects if levels in the body are not controlled

Glycogen

A carbohydrate that acts as an energy and glucose store in animals

Glycogen production

Insulin can reduce blood sugar levels by converting glucose into glycogen molecules that are stored in the liver

Increased glucose uptake by cells

Insulin can reduce blood sugar levels by unlocking more cells to receive glucose for respiration

Type 1 diabetes

A disorder where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin

Type 2 diabetes

A disorder where body cells no longer respond to insulin

Insulin injections

How type 1 diabetes is treated

Carbohydrate controlled diet and exercise

How type 2 diabetes is treated

Uncontrolled high glucose levels

A symptom of diabetes, this can have detrimental effects on the body if not managed

Liver and muscle cells

Where glycogen is converted and stored

Obesity

A risk factor for type 2 diabetes

Glucagon

Hormone released by the pancreas to increase blood glucose, converts glycogen in the liver back into glucose

Negative feedback cycle

Where a change in something brings about a process that causes the opposite effect, keeping levels constant

Glucose and negative feedback

The balance of insulin and glucagon secretions to maintain blood glucose levels

Glucagon negative feedback

If blood sugar levels become too low, glucagon is released to counteract the change

Insulin negative feedback

If blood sugar levels become too high, insulin is released to counteract the change