Control of Blood Sugar

Abstract

The blood sugar level results from the balance between the processes of glucose absorption, and formation of glucose by the liver and the storage and oxidation of this compound. The rate of oxidation of glucose by the tissues in the post absorptive state is about 150 mgs per kg per hr. This will only supply about 1/5 the metabolic needs of the tissues. Storage of glucose is controlled largely by insulin activity. The cells of the body of themselves (without hormoneal control) use glucose at a high rate. In the normally functioning body this inherently high rate is reduced by the action of the pituitary and adrenal cortex. The breakdown of body protein is influenced by the rate of utilization of glucose by the tissues. When this latter is high the former is low and vice versa.