how is the endocrine system affected by diabetes

Diabetes primarily affects the endocrine system by causing abnormalities in insulin secretion. Individuals with diabetes often have elevated blood sugar levels due to either insufficient insulin production or reduced cellular responsiveness to insulin.

In more detail, patients with diabetes may have impaired pancreatic beta cells, which leads to decreased insulin secretion—a key factor in Type 1 diabetes. For those with Type 2 diabetes, although the pancreatic beta cells initially increase insulin secretion compensatorily, their function gradually deteriorates over time, eventually resulting in inadequate insulin secretion. Moreover, peripheral tissues such as the liver, muscles, and adipose tissue in diabetic patients exhibit reduced sensitivity to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance, which is a significant feature of Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetic individuals should focus on dietary control in their daily lives, steering clear of high-sugar and high-fat foods, and maintaining an appropriate level of physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood glucose is essential, and the use of hypoglycemic medications should be done under a physician's supervision, avoiding the arbitrary adjustment or cessation of medication.