Why doesn't decreased insulin secretion during stress cause problems?

In summary, during fight-or-flight situations, alpha 2 receptors of the pancreatic beta cells are stimulated, leading to decreased insulin production. Despite this, adrenaline can still increase glucose uptake in muscles through other receptors or channels independent of insulin, allowing them to continue working efficiently. This mechanism of action is confirmed by ongoing research and is discussed in Ganong medical physiology, 23rd edition.
  • #1
tarekatpf
140
1
During fight-or-flight situations, alpha 2 receptors ( which are inhibitory receptors ) of the pancreatic beta cells are stimulated, and as a result there's decreased insulin production. While it benefits the body by producing increased blood sugar level, I don't understand why Insulin doesn't cause some problems. Such as, since insulin increases glucose intake by the muscle tissues ( skeletal muscles are supposed to be used more in flight-or-fight situations ) and increases glycolysis ( which produces energy ), wouldn't decreased insulin release during flight-or-fight situations cause less glucose intake and less glycolysis ( as a result less energy production ) by the muscle tissues? And wouldn't less energy produced by the muscle tissues cause them work less efficiently?
 
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  • #2
Adrenaline!

Epinephrine acts by binding to a variety of adrenergic receptors. Epinephrine is a nonselective agonist of all adrenergic receptors, including the major subtypes α1, α2, β1, β2, and β3.[15] Epinephrine's binding to these receptors triggers a number of metabolic changes. Binding to α-adrenergic receptors inhibits insulin secretion by the pancreas, stimulates glycogenolysis in the liver and muscle, and stimulates glycolysis in muscle.[20]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epinephrine#Mechanism_of_action

Reference [20] (a textbook):

http://books.google.ca/books?id=zFl...s+of+Medical+Physiology&source=gbs_navlinks_s
 
  • #4
Overall ongoing research also confirms that muscles can increase their glucose uptake
via other receptors or channels independent of INSULIN also.
Adrenaline pumps them up !

reference Ganong medical physiologe 23 edition.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #5
Manish7 said:
reference Ganong medical physiologe 23 edition.
Please post a link to the specific passage you are referencing in this book. Thank you. The book is copyrighted, so you may only quote the specific passage.
 

1. Why does decreased insulin secretion during stress occur?

During times of stress, the body's natural response is to release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones signal the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream for quick energy. This results in the inhibition of insulin secretion, as insulin's role is to lower blood glucose levels. This process is a survival mechanism that allows the body to have readily available energy to respond to the stressor.

2. Does decreased insulin secretion during stress lead to diabetes?

No, decreased insulin secretion during stress is a normal physiological response and does not necessarily lead to diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body is unable to produce or effectively use insulin, resulting in high blood glucose levels. While stress can impact blood glucose levels, it is not the sole cause of diabetes.

3. How does stress affect insulin sensitivity?

Stress can reduce insulin sensitivity, meaning that the body is less responsive to the effects of insulin. This can lead to higher blood glucose levels, as insulin is unable to effectively regulate them. Chronic stress and elevated levels of cortisol can also contribute to the development of insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.

4. Are there any long-term consequences of decreased insulin secretion during stress?

While decreased insulin secretion during stress is a normal response, chronic stress and prolonged periods of elevated blood glucose levels can have negative impacts on health. It can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as other health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and obesity.

5. Can lifestyle changes help manage stress-related changes in insulin secretion?

Yes, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and practicing stress-reducing activities such as meditation and mindfulness can help manage stress-related changes in insulin secretion. These lifestyle changes can also improve overall insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of developing diabetes and other health conditions.

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