LEVELS – A Whole New Level #277 - Key blood tests that tell you about your pancreas health | Dr. Robert Lustig & Mike Haney
Jul 10, 2025
Dr. Robert Lustig, a pediatric neuroendocrinologist and metabolism expert, joins Mike Haney to delve into the complexities of pancreatic health. They discuss essential blood tests for monitoring pancreatic function and the critical differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The conversation highlights the impact of mitochondrial dysfunction on the pancreas and its connections to diseases like Alzheimer’s. Listeners will learn about reversing beta cell dysfunction through lifestyle changes and the importance of dietary management in preventing serious pancreatic issues.
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Autoimmune Origin of Type 1 Diabetes
- Type 1 diabetes arises from autoimmune destruction of beta cells by mistaken identity of self as foreign.
- Gut inflammation and leaky gut may trigger T cells to attack pancreas beta cells.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction Drives Type 2
- Type 2 diabetes stems from mitochondrial dysfunction causing insulin resistance and beta cell stress.
- Beta cells in type 2 become overworked but can become dysfunctional and dormant rather than dead.
C-Peptide and Proinsulin Reveal Beta Cell Status
- C-peptide and proinsulin blood levels reveal true beta cell function and stress beyond insulin measurements.
- Insulin lingers; C-peptide indicates fresh insulin production; proinsulin rise signals beta cell dysfunction.