4.5.3.2 - Control of blood glucose concentration

What organ monitors and controls our blood glucose concentration?

Blood glucose concentration is monitored and controlled by the pancreas.

When does our blood glucose concentration increase?

Eating foods containing carbohydrates puts glucose into the blood from the gut (as these foods are digested)

Describe what happens when blood glucose concentration is too high.

The pancreas produces the hormone insulin

Insulin triggers glucose to move from the blood into the cells

In liver and muscle cells excess glucose is converted to glycogen for storage.

Describe what happens when blood glucose concentration is too low.

The pancreas produces the hormone glucagon

Glucagon causes glycogen to be converted into glucose and released into the blood from muscle and liver cells

What are the two types of diabetes?

• Type 1

• Type 2

What is type 1 diabetes?

A disorder in which the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin.

It is characterised by uncontrolled high blood glucose levels and is normally treated with insulin injections.

Usually diagnosed in young kids

What is type 2 diabetes?

Occurs when body cells no longer respond to insulin produced by the pancreas.

A carbohydrate controlled diet and an exercise regime are common treatments.

What is a risk factor of type 2 diabetes?

Obesity