What is glucose? What is its function in the body?

What is glucose? What is its function in the body?

What is glucose?

Our body's primary energy source is glucose. One of the questions that has been frequently asked lately is... What is glucose? The question is: Excess glucose in the body is stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles. Glucose Its level must be within normal values in the body. Normoglycemia It is the name given to blood glucose levels that are within the normal range. Levels that are not within the normal range. blood glucose levels It causes serious problems in diabetics. Glucose, obtained from carbohydrate-rich foods, is also produced separately from food sources. It is related to starch. Starch is found in foods such as potatoes, rice, and wheat.

Glucose, commonly known as "grape sugar". carbohydrates It is a building block. Glucose is a Greek name, meaning "sweet." It is found in all fruits, especially grapes. We need carbohydrates for our daily lives to proceed smoothly.

The food we consume is broken down through various enzymatic processes in the digestive system and converted into glucose. This is why it is called blood sugar. Excess glucose is converted into carbohydrates and stored in muscles and the liver.

Blood sugar levels rise when nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. Insulin is responsible for transporting glucose from the blood to the cells where it will be used. Excessive glucose buildup in the blood occurs when glucose is drawn into the cells. Thanks to the insulin hormone, the likelihood of excessively high or low glucose levels in the blood is regulated.

The name given to a period where glucose levels remain normal. ‘"normoglycemia"’ It is known as such. When it is lower than normal... ‘"hypoglycemia"’ to be higher than normal ‘’hyperglycemia’’ It is given a name.

In a healthy individual, fasting blood glucose is considered to be between 70-100 mg/dl. Postprandial blood glucose should be below 140 mg/dl. The fasting value refers to an 8-hour fasting period.

How is glucose measured?

Glucose levels are measured using the plasma portion of the blood via a glucose test. This test is performed in a laboratory setting. However, thanks to technologically advanced glucose meters, it is now possible to measure glucose levels at home. A single drop of blood from the finger is sufficient. It is extremely important that your device is reliable and that you compare your results to tests performed in a hospital setting.

Another method is the HbA1c test. This test allows us to determine the blood sugar levels of the past three months. glucose test You can perform this test. Fasting is not required during this test. %5.7 is considered a normal value. %5.7 to %6.4 is considered prediabetes. A person must have %6.5 or higher to be considered diabetic.

These values are evaluated according to the individual's health status and age-related complications. It is critically important that your test results are evaluated under expert supervision.

What are the relationships between blood sugar and glucose?

Blood glucose, that is blood sugar The smallest building block is called glucose. Nutrients like fructose and galactose must first be converted into glucose before they can be used by the body. All body cells use glucose. Glucose found in the intestines is stored as glycogen in the liver.

What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia This is the name given to a condition where blood sugar is below normal. Fasting blood glucose should be 75 mg/dl. It can occur after prolonged fasting, due to certain medications, alcohol, or fatigue. Excessive insulin production can also cause this condition. Hypoglycemia The causes and symptoms may include intense hunger, dizziness, sweating, visual disturbances, and anxiety. In severe cases, brain damage and coma can occur.

What is hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia occurs when glucose levels are above normal. Fasting blood glucose is considered to be 100 mg/dl, and postprandial glucose 140 mg/dl. It is seen in diabetic patients who do not receive adequate treatment or do not follow the necessary procedures. Monitoring is especially important in diabetic patients. Sudden spikes and drops can lead to loss of consciousness, coma, and various kidney diseases. This condition, frequently seen in diabetic patients, can also be caused by excessive stress and steroid medications. It can also be associated with kidney diseases and pancreatic cancers. hyperglycemia It can create an effect.