Autophagy is a process in which cells destroy and recycle damaged or unnecessary parts of their structures to provide energy and building materials for new cells. This function plays a key role in maintaining cell health and preventing disease and is especially important when the body is going through a period of starvation.
When the body is starving, there is not enough food to provide enough energy for the body to function normally. Therefore, the body must rely on other sources of energy, such as fatty acids and glucose, which are stored in the muscles and liver. However, when these sources are exhausted, the organism must start using other sources of energy to survive.
In this situation, autophagy comes into play. When the body runs out of food, the cells begin to "clean" themselves of unnecessary parts and proteins that are no longer useful. In this way, the body receives additional energy and material for new cells, which helps to maintain life.
Autophagy also positively affects the health of the body. For example, it helps reduce oxidative stress, which can lead to cell damage and various diseases. Autophagy has also been shown to have positive effects on metabolism, including reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
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