Blood Sugar Regulation: Maintaining Balance in the Body

VOCABULARY flashcards covering the organs, hormones, and physiological states involved in maintaining blood sugar homeostasis.

Homeostasis

The process that keeps the body's internal environment stable, such as keeping blood sugar levels balanced.

Hypoglycemia

A condition occurring when blood sugar is too low, causing the body to lack energy, leading to dizziness, fatigue, and confusion.

Hyperglycemia

A condition occurring when blood sugar is too high, which damages blood vessels and organs over time.

Pancreas

The organ known as the blood sugar controller that produces the hormones insulin and glucagon.

Insulin

A hormone released by the pancreas when blood sugar is HIGH that signals cells to absorb glucose, lowering blood sugar levels.

Glucagon

A hormone released by the pancreas when blood sugar is LOW that signals the liver to release stored glucose, raising blood sugar levels.

The Liver

The storage organ that responds to insulin and glucagon signals to maintain balanced blood sugar levels by storing or releasing glucose.

Glycogen

The form in which the liver stores excess glucose for later use when blood sugar drops.

Muscle Cells

Cells that absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy, particularly during physical activity, helping lower blood sugar levels after eating.

Fat Tissue

Adipose tissue that stores excess glucose as fat when blood sugar is high, serving as a long-term energy reserve.

A1C Level (Without Diabetes)

A blood sugar measurement that is typically $<5.7\%$ for individuals without diabetes.

Fasting Glucose (Without Diabetes)

The blood sugar level measured after fasting, which is typically less than $100\,mg/dl$ for individuals without diabetes.

Feedback Loop

The coordinated process involving organs and hormones that keeps blood sugar levels within a healthy range at all times.