In class last week, we conducted an experiment illustrating a process called negative feedback loops. Feedback loops are simply processes in which the output affects the following input.
Positive feedback loops occur when output continuously increases the level of input. For example, increased carbon dioxide levels result in faster rates of melting for polar ice caps meaning that more water will absorb heat from the sun versus ice which reflects sunlight. This increased absorption of heat means that ice caps would melt even faster. leading to more ice caps melting.
Negative feedback loops are those in which the output does not increase input levels. Negative feedback loops result in a process called homeostasis in which a system remains balanced or near normal levels most of the time.
Below is a graphical representation of our experiment. Note that the Blood Glucose level returns to approximately the same level following a period of time.
This return to a normal Blood Glucose level is due to the body's production of insulin. As your body senses increased glucose levels in the blood stream, it increases insulin production. Insulin is necessary so that the glucose that is floating around can be used by the cells for energy. This video does a really good job at explaining the entire process. So in the end, your raised blood glucose level, over time, decreases due to insulin production until it returns to homeostasis.
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