Diabetes related terms

Hyperglycemia

excessive glucose circulating around in the blood

Glucagon

A hormone released by the Alpha cells in the Pancreas that move stored glucose out of the liver and into the bloodstream; raises blood glucose levels.

Insulin

A hormone released by the Beta cells in the Pancreas that helps glucose get into the cells of the body; lowers blood glucose levels

Diabetes

Endocrine disorder that disrupts glucose metabolism

glucose metabolism

The process by which cells use glucose for energy; insulin is a necessary hormone for this process

Pancreas

organ that has both endocrine and digestive functions; produces and releases insulin and glucagon

Glycogen

stored glucose in the liver; released when blood glucose is too low

Hypoglycemia

abnormally low level of glucose circulating around in the blood

insulin resistance

a condition in which the insulin receptors on the cells do not respond to insulin and therefore glucose cannot enter the cells; primary cause of Type 2

Endocrine System

a group of glands and cells that produce and secrete hormones that the body uses for a wide range of functions.

Hormones

chemicals that are made by endocrine glands, released into the bloodstream, and travel through the body to other cells where they have a biological effect.

Glucose

primary source of energy for the cells of the body; needs insulin to get into the cells

Homeostasis

the ability or tendency of the body to maintain a stable or balanced internal state

blood glucose levels

the amount of glucose floating in the bloodstream; aka blood sugar level

autoimmune process

the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body; primary cause of Type 1 Diabetes