glükoositasakaalu

Glükoositasakaal refers to the physiological process by which the body maintains stable levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Glucose is the primary source of energy for most cells in the body, and its concentration in the bloodstream is tightly regulated. This regulation is crucial for proper bodily function, as both excessively high (hyperglycemia) and excessively low (hypoglycemia) blood glucose levels can have detrimental health consequences.

The primary hormones involved in glucose homeostasis are insulin and glucagon, both produced by the pancreas. Insulin, released when blood glucose levels rise (e.g., after a meal), promotes the uptake of glucose by cells for energy or storage, thereby lowering blood glucose. It also stimulates the liver and muscles to convert glucose into glycogen, a storage form of glucose. Glucagon, released when blood glucose levels fall (e.g., during fasting or exercise), stimulates the liver to break down stored glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream, thus raising blood glucose levels.

Other hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, can also influence glucose metabolism, generally by increasing blood glucose levels in response to stress or physical activity. The balance between the actions of these hormones ensures that cells receive a consistent supply of glucose. Disruptions in glucose homeostasis can lead to conditions like diabetes mellitus, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, or reactive hypoglycemia, where blood sugar drops too low after eating. Maintaining this delicate equilibrium is vital for overall health.