Insulin dependence and insulin independence

Insulin dependence and insulin independence

All tissues of the human body can be divided into insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent. The first includes muscles, adipose tissue and liver, the second - all the rest. This division is based on the principle of sugar entering the tissues.

Insulin-dependent tissues can absorb sugar from the blood only in the presence of insulin, which opens the “door” for sugar into the cells. Without insulin, sugar cannot enter these cells.

Sugar can enter insulin-independent tissues without the participation of insulin. The “doors” are always open for them. These tissues include the brain, heart, kidneys, nerves, testes and other vital organs.

Why did the body make such a division? The fact is that the work of these organs is critical to maintaining life, and disruptions in their functioning are extremely dangerous. Therefore, the body strives to provide them with energy first, regardless of the level of insulin in the blood.

When blood sugar levels rise after a meal, the brain instructs the pancreas to produce additional insulin. Insulin helps store excess sugar in insulin-dependent tissues - muscles and liver. And insulin-independent organs receive sugar without hindrance.

In diabetes, when there is not enough insulin, sugar cannot enter the “warehouses” and circulates throughout the body. Insulin-independent cells are forced to utilize it, which leads to the accumulation of sorbitol, a substance that retains water in tissues. This causes swelling, impairs blood circulation and ultimately leads to serious complications of diabetes.

Therefore, in diabetes, it is very important to control sugar levels with insulin to avoid excess blood sugar and the buildup of dangerous sorbitol.