Reducing levels of insulin signalling to lower diabetes risk

Keeping levels of insulin low could aid in prolonging life. Striking the fine balance in insulin signalling between the body and brain is the key, according to a new study by a research team at the Boston Children’s Hospital.
When cells require sugar from the blood, insulin sends a signal to the brain. With reduced insulin sensitivity, a common feature of pre-diabetes, metabolic syndromen, and general aging, cells become less sensitive, meaning more insulin is required.
The head of the study, Morris White, reportedly commented: “increased insulin also gets into the brain, where it can be detrimental.” The team disproved the more is good theory applied by many experts.
The first author of the study, Akiko Taguchi, reportedly commented: “To our surprise, all of the engineered mice lived longer.” White concluded: “This study provides a new explanation of why it’s good to exercise and not eat too much. It has less to do with how we look, and more to do with a healthy brain, especially in old age.”