One reason for diabetes identified

A biological mechanism that enabled our prehistoric ancestors to survive times of famine may explain why some people develop type II diabetes. It all has to do with the way our bodies store fat.

Researchers in California discovered that a protein called fibroblast growth factor-1 (FGF1) helps the body metabolize fat. The protein enables a body to hold fat in reserve and dole it out over time by regulating insulin to help maintain normal blood sugar levels. This ensures we have energy at all times, even when our food intake is irregular.

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