Osteoblasts, responsible for forming our bones, produce a protein called osteocalcin. Upon activation, osteocalcin helps increase insulin levels which then reduces sugar in our blood. This hormone first builds up in the bone and is then released into the blood after a series of chemical reactions. Osteocalcins are inactive when first produced by osteoblasts. In order for osteocalcin to activate, an enzyme called furin acts like molecular scissors which “snips” off some molecules in osteocalcin.
Professor Mathieu Ferron from the IRCM states that if there is no presence of furin, the ostreocalcin remains inactive. Even if the inactive ostreocalcin is released into the blood, it won't affect the production of insulin and lead to higher levels of blood glucose. Surprisingly, getting rid of the “scissors” reduces one's appetite. The findings of the study have since been published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
While ostreocalcin has no direct effect on appetite, its function of creating larger insulin levels is related to metabolism. Appetite is a natural desire to satisfy food needs, while metabolism is the chemical process which helps the body absorb nutrients and energy from food. Since Type 2 diabetes is concerned with glucose levels and low insulin levels, this study aims to help patients diagnosed with the problem in the future. According to Professor Ferron, changes in the concentration of osteocalcin in the blood of some individuals may help keep diabetes at bay.
Since there isn't sufficient evidence as to how we can trigger an activation of osteocalcins, alternative methods to increasing metabolism will help individuals diagnosed with diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic disorders.
Engaging in a healthy lifestyle proves beneficial. By eating healthy, organic food, you help your body function normally. Here are some tips on boosting your metabolism:
- Eat healthy, organic food – Healthy nutrition is directly related to your overall health. Incorporate almonds, beans, berries, celery, coconut oil, green tea, peppers, and organic, fair-trade coffee into your diet, and reduce that unwanted blood sugar.
- Normalize your eating habits – By eating the right number of fulfilling meals, you help your internal organs function properly. It is suggested that a person should have five to six small meals everyday, instead of eating huge proportions three times a day. Eating light meals helps you digest faster, and therefore, boost your metabolism.
- Take your natural supplements – Since not all the healthy nutrients can be eaten in one go, supplements help supply your body with the vitamins it needs.
- Spend time under the sun – Exposing yourself to sunlight helps your body produce the vitamins it needs, and sets your body clock which is as important as food is when it comes to regulating your metabolism.
- Follow your circadian rhythm – Another term for body clock, the circadian rhythm is the natural cycle of processes that happen in your body. Get up early, do your daily activities, and sleep at the right time. Following your circadian rhythm helps set your organs' daily functions.
- Lower stress levels – Daily stress leads to lower health states. Visiting a tree-filled park, taking a nature vacation, or simply gardening can help increase contentment and happiness.
- Engage in an active lifestyle – Regular city-dwellers spend more than eight hours sitting down, and that contributes to an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle. Being inactive only hastens your chances of developing cardiovascular disorders and diabetes. By exercising daily, you not only improve your metabolism, but also reduce the risk of unwanted sicknesses.
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