Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
When the blood glucose level rises after a meal, the first organ to respond is the:
A
kidney
B
small intestine
C
pancreas
D
liver
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Blood glucose levels rise after a meal due to the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, which are broken down into glucose and released into the bloodstream.
Identify the role of the pancreas: The pancreas is a key organ in regulating blood glucose levels. It detects the increase in blood glucose and responds by releasing insulin, a hormone that helps lower blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake by cells.
Clarify why other organs are not the first responders: The kidney primarily filters blood and maintains electrolyte balance, not glucose regulation. The small intestine is involved in nutrient absorption but does not regulate blood glucose levels. The liver plays a role in glucose storage and release but acts in response to signals from the pancreas.
Explain the sequence of events: After a meal, glucose is absorbed into the bloodstream from the small intestine. The pancreas detects the rise in blood glucose and releases insulin. Insulin signals cells to take up glucose, and the liver stores excess glucose as glycogen.
Conclude with the correct answer: The pancreas is the first organ to respond to rising blood glucose levels by releasing insulin, making it the correct answer.