How is diabetes a disruption of homeostasis?

Diabetes disrupts homeostasis by impairing the body's ability to regulate blood glucose levels.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body's ability to maintain homeostasis, specifically in the regulation of blood glucose levels. Homeostasis is the process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment, despite changes in external conditions. One of the key aspects of homeostasis is the regulation of blood glucose levels, which is crucial for providing energy to cells.

In a healthy individual, the hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps to regulate blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells. However, in individuals with diabetes, this process is disrupted. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. As a result, the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels effectively. In Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin, meaning that even though insulin is being produced, it is not used effectively.

This disruption in the regulation of blood glucose levels can lead to hyperglycemia, a condition characterised by excessively high levels of glucose in the blood. Over time, this can cause damage to various organs and tissues in the body, including the heart, kidneys, and eyes. Conversely, if blood glucose levels fall too low, a condition known as hypoglycemia, this can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.

In summary, diabetes disrupts homeostasis by impairing the body's ability to regulate blood glucose levels, either through a lack of insulin production (Type 1 diabetes) or insulin resistance (Type 2 diabetes). This can lead to a range of health complications if not managed effectively.