GCSE Biology - Diabetes | Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes (2027/28 exams)

Main Ideas

• Insulin regulates blood glucose. When blood glucose rises, the pancreas releases insulin. Insulin signals cells to absorb glucose and convert some of it into glycogen, helping bring blood glucose back toward normal.
• Diabetes makes blood glucose harder to regulate because the insulin system is not working properly. The video distinguishes two types:
  • Type 1 diabetes: The pancreas produces little or no insulin. It often begins in childhood or the teenage years and is lifelong. Without enough insulin, blood glucose can become dangerously high.
  • Type 2 diabetes: The body’s cells become resistant to insulin and respond less effectively. The pancreas may produce insulin, sometimes in large amounts, but cells do not take up as much glucose as they should.

Treatments and Management

Type 1 Diabetes

• Insulin is usually given by injection, for example, into the abdomen or thigh.
• The amount needed depends mainly on:
  • Food eaten: A sugary meal may require more insulin.
  • Exercise: Muscles absorb more glucose during exercise, so more activity may mean less insulin is needed.
• People are generally encouraged to limit sugary foods and exercise regularly.

Type 2 Diabetes

• Because the cells are resistant to insulin, giving insulin may not address the main problem.
• Some medicines may be used, but the main approach described is a healthy, low-sugar diet and regular exercise.

Key distinction: Type 1 diabetes is caused by insufficient insulin production; Type 2 diabetes is caused by reduced responsiveness to insulin.

Speaker and Source

• Cognito video narrator — the only speaker featured.