NUTR240-Module3-Glucose+Regulation flashcards

Insulin

A hormone secreted by the beta cells of the pancreas that regulates glucose levels in the blood by promoting glucose uptake in cells.

Glucagon

A hormone secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreas that increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis.

Glycogenesis

The process of converting glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver and muscles.

Lipogenesis

The metabolic process of converting excess carbohydrates into fatty acids for storage as triglycerides.

Glycemic Index

A measure of a food's potential to raise blood glucose levels, relative to pure glucose.

Glycemic Load

A value derived from the glycemic index and the amount of carbohydrates in a food, used to assess the impact on blood glucose response.

Type 1 Diabetes

A form of diabetes where the body does not produce enough insulin due to destruction of pancreatic beta cells.

Type 2 Diabetes

A form of diabetes characterized by insulin resistance, commonly associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Hyperglycemia

Higher-than-normal blood glucose levels, often associated with diabetes and can lead to various complications.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood glucose levels that may cause symptoms like shakiness, sweating, and weakness.

Diabetes Mellitus

A chronic disease characterized by impaired blood glucose regulation leading to high levels of glucose in the blood.

Epinephrine

A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that increases blood glucose levels during stress by promoting glycogen breakdown.

Cortisol

A hormone that increases blood glucose levels through gluconeogenesis and is associated with stress response.

Gestational Diabetes

Glucose intolerance during pregnancy, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy.

Blood Glucose Regulation

The physiological processes by which the body maintains glucose levels within a narrow range to support cellular function.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Common signs of diabetes include polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia.

Complications of Diabetes

Potential health issues arising from uncontrolled diabetes, including neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease.

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test

A blood test used to diagnose diabetes by measuring blood glucose levels after fasting.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

A test that measures the body's response to glucose intake to diagnose diabetes.

Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test (HgbA1c)

A blood test that reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months, used for diabetes diagnosis.