Psilocybin and diabetes - Psychedelic therapy

Protection of β cells

In a recent study published in the journal Genes scientists investigated the effects of psilocybin on the viability and function of β cells. These cells play a crucial role in the regulation of blood glucose levels and are relevant to type II diabetes.

The main findings are as follows:

Serotonin and β cells: Psilocybin has agonistic effects on the serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2B receptors, similar to serotonin. This research focused on the influence of psilocybin on β-cells in an in vitro system.
Protective effect: Psilocybin was shown to effectively reduce β-cell loss induced by high glucose and lipid conditions (HG-HL). This was possibly mediated by the regulation of apoptotic biomarkers and the inhibition of TXNIP, STAT-1 and STAT-3 phosphorylation.
Dedifferentiation: Psilocybin also affected genes involved in β-cell dedifferentiation, such as Pou5f1 and Nanog. This suggests that psilocybin may help prevent β-cell dedifferentiation.

Why β-cell protection is important in diabetes

Protecting β cells is important in diabetes because these cells are responsible for the production and release of insulin in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that is essential for regulating blood sugar levels. In type 1 diabetes, the β-cells are attacked and destroyed by the body's own immune system, causing insulin to no longer be produced. In type 2 diabetes, the β-cells are overloaded by the continuous high blood sugar levels and can eventually become exhausted, causing a decrease in insulin production.

Protecting β cells is important because it can slow or even prevent the progression of diabetes. By protecting the β-cells, insulin production can be maintained and blood sugar levels can be better regulated. This can reduce or prevent complications and symptoms of diabetes.

Psilocybin as an anti-inflammatory

Scientific research has previously shown that psilocybin works as an anti-inflammatory. During the psilocybin session there was a decrease in TNF-α. After seven days, a significant decrease in IL-6 and CRP was observed compared to the placebo group. Participants reported long-lasting positive effects after psilocybin. A greater decrease in IL-6 and CRP levels after one week was reported. Reducing the production of inflammatory markers by psilocybin enhances the effectiveness of psilocybin in diabetes.

What else you can do to protect β cells

There are several ways to protect β cells, such as reducing inflammation, avoiding oxidative stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet with less sugar, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and reducing stress are all important factors that can help protect β-cells and manage diabetes. In addition, certain nutrients and supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and antioxidants, can also help protect β-cells.

What dosage of psilocybin?

The dosage of psilocybin is not stated in the research into diabetes and the protection of β-cells. For now, it appears that the amount of psilocybin has been more than the amount used in microdosing. According to several studies, you achieve more anti-inflammatory effects from psilocybin at several higher doses with sufficient time between these psilocybin sessions.

Psilocybin under supervision

An effective and higher dose of psilocybin can cause strong hallucinations. Psilocybin under supervision often works better because the presence of an experienced supervisor ensures a safe and structured environment. A counselor can help to reduce any fears and discomfort during the session and can also provide support in processing the experiences afterwards. In addition, a facilitator can help to direct the session and guide it towards specific objectives, such as exploring certain themes or working on personal growth. A good supervisor will create the right setting and atmosphere, provide a safe feeling, safe setting and provide the necessary support throughout the entire process. This can lead to a deeper and more meaningful experience. Such a deeper psilocybin trip does not seem to be important in diabetes treatment, but it can help to get more out of a psilocybin session, such as more rest and therefore less inflammation.

Do you want to know if you can undergo a psilocybin session or do you want to learn more about what psilocybin is? Complete the intake via the button or read more via the psilocybin information page.