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A research, which took place on Mount Everest, assessed the mechanisms by which low oxygen levels in the body – known as hypoxia – are linked to the development of insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance is when cells fail to respond to insulin in the body. Insulin enables the body to regulate sugar levels. Too much sugar can be toxic and leads to type II diabetes.
The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Southampton and University College London (UCL) in the UK.
Their findings come from a 2007 study, called Caudwell Xtreme Everest. This research group is comprised of intensive care doctors, nurses and scientists who conduct experiments on themselves and other volunteers at high altitudes.
The team says they have gained a better understanding of the molecular process involved when some people get type 2 diabetes. When cells fail to respond to insulin in the body, this is known as insulin resistance.
Because insulin helps the body regulate sugar levels, if this process is faulty, then too much sugar in the body can be toxic, leading to type 2 diabetes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), type 2 diabetes accounts for 90-95% of diabetes cases in the US. It can be prevented through healthy food choices, physical activity and weight loss, however, once it sets in, insulin or oral medication may be required.
Agencies/Canadajournal
