Basal (medicine)

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Basal refers to a minimal level that is necessary for health or life. In medicine, the term is often used to describe the base level of a substance that the body needs to function properly. This can refer to anything from hormones to blood sugar levels.

Basal Levels in the Body[edit | edit source]

The body maintains certain basal levels of various substances to ensure proper functioning. For example, the basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy expended while at rest in a neutrally temperate environment. This energy is used for vital functions such as breathing, circulating blood, and regulating body temperature.

Similarly, the basal insulin level is the amount of insulin that the body needs to process glucose and keep blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. People with diabetes may need to take basal insulin to help their bodies regulate blood sugar levels.

Basal in Medicine[edit | edit source]

In medicine, the term "basal" is often used to describe the base level of a substance that the body needs to function properly. This can refer to anything from hormones to blood sugar levels. For example, the basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy expended while at rest in a neutrally temperate environment. This energy is used for vital functions such as breathing, circulating blood, and regulating body temperature.

Similarly, the basal insulin level is the amount of insulin that the body needs to process glucose and keep blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. People with diabetes may need to take basal insulin to help their bodies regulate blood sugar levels.

Basal Conditions[edit | edit source]

Certain conditions can affect the body's basal levels. For example, hypothyroidism can lower the basal metabolic rate, leading to weight gain and fatigue. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism can raise the basal metabolic rate, leading to weight loss and increased heart rate.

Diabetes can affect the body's basal insulin level. People with type 1 diabetes do not produce enough insulin, while people with type 2 diabetes do not use insulin effectively. Both types of diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels if not properly managed.

See Also[edit | edit source]


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