We created BSB to show how blood sugar, diabetes, diet, exercise, and environment interact. Our goal is to promote an understanding of our bodies' processes. We know that each persons's health is a complex combination of many factors. But, we hope this activity will encourage people to make healthier choices.
TYPE 2 DIABETES
Type 2 diabetes affects the body's ability to produce and use insulin. This leads to high blood sugar. Prolonged high blood sugar leads to many health problems. These include: heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Diet and exercise can be very helpful in managing type 2 diabetes or avoiding it completely.
INSULIN & GLUCAGON
The pancreas produces the chemicals that regulate the body's blood sugar. Insulin allows tissues and organs to process and use sugars. This removes sugars from the blood. Glucagon triggers the process that adds stored sugars from the liver into the blood. It also helps convert stored fat back into sugars.
DIET & EXERCISE
Food choices and exercise are very important for balanced blood sugar. People with high-sugar diets are more likely to develop diabetes. A healthy low-sugar diet is important for people living with diabetes, but everyone benefits from better food choices. Regular exercise also benefits everyone at any level. When you exercise your body's tissues need more energy so they use more sugar. This helps your body maintain healthy blood sugar levels.