The Effect of Damaged Islets of Langerhans on Blood Glucose Levels

When the islets of Langerhans, specifically the beta cells, get damaged, it affects the normal secretion of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and is responsible for regulating blood glucose levels. Without sufficient insulin, the body's ability to properly utilize glucose is compromised, leading to an increase in blood glucose levels.

The Role of Boiled Potato in Blood Glucose Levels

Boiled potatoes are a source of carbohydrates, which are broken down into glucose during the process of digestion. When we consume boiled potatoes, the carbohydrates are converted into glucose and absorbed into the bloodstream. However, without functional beta cells, the body is unable to adequately respond to the rise in blood glucose levels.

Expected Blood Glucose Level after Digestion

Given the scenario of damaged islets of Langerhans, particularly the beta cells, the blood glucose level after digestion of boiled potato would likely be elevated.

1. 100mg/100ml of blood as digestion is reduced: This option is incorrect because digestion of carbohydrates, including boiled potatoes, still occurs even if the islets of Langerhans are damaged. The main issue lies in the body's inability to regulate the resulting rise in blood glucose levels.

2. 200mg/100ml of blood as glucagon secretion increases: This option is incorrect because glucagon is a hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas and it functions to increase blood glucose levels. In the case of damaged beta cells, the secretion of insulin decreases, but there is no direct impact on glucagon secretion. Therefore, the blood glucose level would not be expected to double in this scenario.

3. 200mg/100ml of blood as ß cell secretion decreases: This option is correct. With damaged beta cells, the secretion of insulin decreases or is absent. As a result, the body is unable to effectively lower blood glucose levels, leading to higher levels after digestion of boiled potato.

4. 190mg/100ml of blood as alpha cells get damaged: This option is incorrect as the damage to alpha cells, which produce glucagon, would not directly affect the blood glucose level after digestion of boiled potato. The main issue lies in the impaired insulin secretion from the beta cells.

In conclusion, when the islets of Langerhans, specifically the beta cells, are damaged, the blood glucose level after digestion of boiled potato would be expected to be higher, around 200mg/100ml of blood, due to the decreased or absent insulin secretion.

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