Glucose regulation: How body keeps blood sugar levels balanced

Corresponding Author:

Dushad Ram
Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
E-mail: dalias@hotmail.com

Received: 13-Dec-2022, Manuscript No. FMDM-22-93448; Editor assigned: 15-Dec-2022, PreQC No. FMDM-22-93448 (PQ); Reviewed: 29-Dec-2022, QC No. FMDM-22-93448; Revised: 09-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. FMDM-22-93448 (R); Published: 16-Jan-2023, DOI: 10.37532/1758-1907.2023.13.441-442

Abstract

Description

Glucose is the primary source of energy for the human body, and it plays a vital role in keeping all the organs and tissues functioning properly. However, the level of glucose in the blood must be kept within a narrow range for optimal health. If the blood sugar levels get too high or too low, it can lead to a range of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and neurological disorders. This is why the body has a sophisticated system of glucose regulation to ensure that blood sugar levels stay balanced.

Glucose metabolism

The body regulates glucose levels, it’s important to understand glucose metabolism. When body consumes carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose molecules in the digestive system. The glucose is then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to cells throughout the body. The cells use glucose as a source of energy for various processes, including muscle contraction, cell growth, and brain function.

Insulin and glucagon

The two primary hormones involved in glucose regulation are insulin and glucagon. Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas, while glucagon is produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. These hormones work in opposition to each other to regulate blood sugar levels.

When blood sugar levels are high, such as after a meal, insulin is released into the bloodstream. Insulin signals to the cells to take up glucose from the bloodstream, where it can be used for energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle tissue. Insulin also signals the liver to stop producing glucose and start storing it as glycogen.

Conversely, when blood sugar levels are low, such as during fasting or exercise, glucagon is released into the bloodstream. Glucagon signals to the liver to break down glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream. This process is known as glycogenolysis. Glucagon also signals the liver to produce glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids and fatty acids. This process is known as gluconeogenesis.

Glucose regulation in the liver

The liver plays a critical role in glucose regulation. It acts as a glucose buffer, storing excess glucose as glycogen when blood sugar levels are high and releasing glucose into the bloodstream when blood sugar levels are low. The liver can store up to 10% of its weight as glycogen.

When insulin is released into the bloodstream after a meal, it signals the liver to stop producing glucose and start storing it as glycogen. When blood sugar levels drop, glucagon signals the liver to break down glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream.

However, in people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, the liver may produce too much glucose, even when blood sugar levels are high. This can lead to hyperglycemia and increase the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.

Glucose regulation in muscle and fat tissue

Muscle and fat tissue also play a role in glucose regulation. Both tissues can store glucose as glycogen, although muscle tissue stores more glycogen than fat tissue.

During exercise, muscle tissue uses glycogen as a source of energy. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity. In people with type 2 diabetes, exercise can be an effective way to improve glucose regulation and reduce the risk of complications.

Fat tissue can also store glucose as glycogen, although it plays a smaller role in glucose regulation than muscle tissue. Adipose tissue can also produce and secrete hormones known as adipokines, which can affect insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation.