What are the basics of diabetes? And why do we have to know these? We have to learn a bit on this topic of metabolism in order to understand why many are developing prediabetes and diabetes. You see metabolism is part of the processes in the body that direct energy like fat into storage or for use and for physical activity. The three food groups that provide this energy are carbohydrates, fat and protein. Fats and carbohydrates are the sources of energy that keep the body in good working order.
Complex carbohydrates are broken down in the small intestine into smaller sugars which are then absorbed into the circulation. These are carried into the blood to the cell where it is further broken down. This provides us with energy. Fatty acids that are broken down from our dietary fats is the other major source of energy. What carries these sources of energy? Insulin, that's what. Insulin is manufactured in the pancreas where there are a number of cells called islets. The most important cells here are the beta cells that make insulin.
How does insulin do its job? After a meal, when the blood sugar level rises, the beta cells sense this and make insulin which increases the amount of sugar and keeps the blood sugar from rising too high. It also directs the storage of sugar, fats and protein. So when the blood sugar falls, the insulin directs the energy from the storage to the cells that need them. You see, insulin is like a traffic policeman. This is what happens when a person is healthy. When the system is disrupted, then there is trouble ahead.
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