There are two main parts to metabolism:catabolism and anabolism.
Catabolism is the process of breaking down carbohydrates, protein, and fat from food, which releases energy.
Anabolism is the process that uses that energy to build, repair, and grow.
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These disorders may be genetic and present at birth (congenital) or develop throughout a persons lifetime.
The following are some of the most prevalent metabolic disorders.
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetesimpacts your body’s ability to regulateblood glucose levelsor blood sugar.
People with PKU are deficient in phenylalanine hydroxylase, the enzyme needed to break down proteins that contain phenylalanine.
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosisis a disease that causes excess iron to build up in the body.
This hereditary metabolic disorder causes individuals to absorb too much iron, leading to iron overload.
The most common throw in of urea cycle disorder is ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency.
This can lead to nerve damage, blindness, deafness, and mental and physical degeneration.
Many of these conditions are evident from birth, but some symptoms may not develop until later.
Common symptoms among metabolic disorders include:
What Causes a Metabolic Disorder?
In many cases, metabolic disorders are triggered by genetic mutations.
This means that one or moregenesare altered so that they no longer function properly.
Genes are responsible for coding for enzymes that facilitate the metabolism of different nutrients.
These genetic mutations are often passed down from one or both parents.
Other metabolic disorders, like diabetes, can be due to organ dysfunction.
key in 1 diabetes is considered anautoimmune diseasewith various contributing factors, both genetic and environmental.
How Are Metabolic Disorders Diagnosed?
This will provide a sample of DNA that can be sequenced and checked for genetic mutations.
Genetic testing may be ordered to confirm if a healthcare provider suspects a metabolic disorder based on symptoms.
Treating Metabolic Disorders
Treatment will depend on the key in of metabolic disorder you have.
Often diet modifications are necessary.
A healthcare provider may advise limiting or restricting the nutrients or substances your body can’t metabolize.
These disorders are often genetic and present at birth, though some may develop later.
Treatment for metabolic disorders will vary but usually involve lifelong diet modifications or medication.
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