December 19, 2006
Other
Question from India:
Can we relate type 2 diabetes and persistent/uncontrolled hyperglycemia to stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system in view of overeating and opting sedentary lifestyle which may be like “rest and digest,” a feature of PNS? Can pollution( low oxygen intake/shortness of breath), acidic foods, etc. by living in big, crowded cities and opting for a modern lifestyle (a person may become lazy) cause prolonged stimulation of PNS?
Answer:
I think the major issue is that the lifestyle in a large urban environment does not favor much physical exercise and is associated with a sedentary lifestyle leading to obesity and ultimately diabetes. The other effects on the sympathetic/parasympathetic nervous system are likely secondary. Not as much known about urban pollution and its effect on diabetes.
JTL
