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Homeostasis Research Paper

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Introduction
Homeostasis refers to the relatively constant physiological state of the body despite fluctuations in the environment. A form of homeostasis is blood glucose regulation. Blood glucose (sugar) is a main energy provider for the body and allows energy to be available to cells. The concentration of glucose in the blood must be maintained at a constant level, 3.9-5.6mmol/1, in order for internal systems to function in the stable condition needed for survival. Stable blood glucose levels is especially important as it is essential for normal brain function as the brain can only use glucose or ketone bodies as a ‘fuel’/ energy provider. Over 60% of circulating blood glucose is used by the brain. Regulation of blood glucose occurs by …show more content…
Food composition can effect blood glucose depending on the different types of food consumed. After eating, the body breaks it down into nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats and vitamins. Carbohydrates are the main cause of blood glucose levels rising in relation to food consumption. Liquids that contain carbohydrates (such as milk or juice) are absorbed more quickly than solid foods which contain carbohydrates (such as bread). When eating a carbohydrate rich meal, the blood glucose from the carbohydrates enters the blood in the small intestine creating a surplus of glucose. Glucose transporters, a membrane protein, will carry out diffusion of glucose into cells, though the surplus glucose will cause the glucose regulatory system to react in order to lower the increased blood glucose as a short term effect of prolonged high glucose levels can lead to hyperglycaemia. The main symptoms of hyperglycaemia are increased thirst and a frequent need to urinate and it can even lead to a coma, seizures and/or stupor in the most serious of cases. Usually hyperglycaemia occurs when blood glucose concentration exceeds 7mmol/L. To counteract hyperglycaemia the regulation system will counteract this rise through the three

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