Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Type 2 Diabetes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes as discussed in the lecture notes.

Insulin

A hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose in the blood enter cells to use it for energy.

Insulin Resistance

A condition where cells stop responding properly to insulin, leading to increased blood sugar levels.

Metabolic Syndrome

A constellation of metabolic disorders, including dyslipidemia, obesity, glucose intolerance, and hypertension.

Adipose Tissue

Tissue in the body that stores fat and functions as an endocrine organ releasing various substances affecting metabolism.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measurement that assesses body weight relative to height and is used to categorize individuals as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

Central Obesity

Excess fat around the abdomen, often associated with higher risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Dyslipidemia

An abnormal level of lipids (fats) in the blood, which is often a component of metabolic syndrome.

Glycogen Synthesis

The process by which glucose is converted into glycogen for storage in the liver and muscles.

Inflammation

A biological response to harmful stimuli, which in the context of obesity can lead to insulin resistance and other metabolic disturbances.

Waist Circumference (WC)

A measurement of abdominal girth that is a strong indicator of risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.