Life Science - Homeostasis of blood glucose levels

Homeostasis of blood glucose levels and Disorders caused by the imbalance in levels of blood glucose

What happens to blood glucose levels after eating a carbohydrate-rich meal?

Blood glucose levels rise above the norm.

What cells in the pancreas are stimulated when blood glucose levels rise?

Beta cells are stimulated.

Beta cells

secrete insulin

Insulin

regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into tissues

What are the effects of insulin on blood glucose levels? (4)

increases cell permeability to glucose, stimulates active absorption of glucose, promotes the conversion of excess glucose into glycogen, and inhibits glucagon secretion

Glucagon

increases blood glucose levels

What happens to blood glucose levels if you skip a meal?

Blood glucose levels drop below the norm.

Which cells in the pancreas respond to low blood glucose levels?

Alpha cells.

What hormone do alpha cells release when blood glucose is low?

glucagon

How does glucagon increase blood glucose levels?

By:Stimulating the conversion of stored glycogen into glucose in liver cells.

Stimulating liver cells to release glucose into the bloodstream.

Which two hormones control blood glucose levels?

insulin and glucagon

What is the normal blood glucose level in humans?

Between 3.5 and 5.5 mmol/l of blood.

What is diabetes mellitus?

A disorder where the blood glucose level is too high due to inadequate insulin secretion or ineffective insulin action.

What are common symptoms of diabetes mellitus?

Excessive urination Thirst Dehydration Weight loss Poor wound healing Blurred vision

What causes Type 1 diabetes?

The pancreas produces no insulin, often due to inherited factors or damaged pancreatic cells.

How is Type 1 diabetes managed?

Through daily insulin injections into body fat for slow release into the bloodstream.

What causes Type 2 diabetes?

The body either doesn't produce enough insulin or the insulin produced is ineffective.

How is Type 2 diabetes managed?

With medication, a healthy diet, and regular exercise.

What are two possible reasons why diabetes develops?

The pancreas produces little or no insulin. Body cells do not respond to insulin (insulin resistance).

How do doctors typically diagnose diabetes?

By testing for glucose in the urine.

Why is glucose found in the urine of diabetics?

Because glucose remains in the blood and is not absorbed by body cells, so it exits the body through urine.

At what age is Type 1 diabetes most commonly diagnosed?

In children, teenagers, and young adults.

What complications can occur if Type 1 diabetes is not managed properly?

Coma and death.

Who is most commonly affected by Type 2 diabetes?

Older adults, but it can occur at any age.

What medical complications are associated with Type 2 diabetes?

Increased risk of heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney damage.