If you have, or know someone who has diabetes, then you most likely have heard the term blood "glucose". But what exactly is glucose and why is it so important to know what levels of glucose are in your blood?
What Is Glucose?
In basic terms, glucose comes from a carbohydrate. Carbs are what give you energy, like a simple sugar. They are found in all types of foods including breads, pasta, cereals, soda, etc. As is usually the case, the more carbohydrates a food contains, the higher your blood glucose level goes after eating them.
Where Does Glucose Come From?
Our bodies are what produces glucose, we don't just have it built in our genes so to speak. When your body begins to run low on glucose, you will notice a big loss of energy. Your body needs recharged. To give your body more energy, you have to eat more carbohydrates. When you do, your body takes these carbs and turns them into glucose, which in turn gives you the increased energy.
Most people have no problems with their glucose level. Where high glucose levels come into play for people with diabetes is that their body can't burn off the extra glucose. They either do not have, or can not produce enough insulin to reduce the level of glucose. It stays in their system and doesn't get eliminated. The problem is then compounded with every meal they eat. This is why it is so important to know what your glucose level is.
Left unchecked, high glucose levels can turn into diabetes, and later can cause severe health problems and even death. It is not something to take lightly.
Don't confuse blood glucose with the commercial glucose you can buy that is made from corn starch. I know that many people can get confused with this and the two are totally unrelated.
What Is A Normal Level Of Glucose?
This will vary drastically during the day, as well as before and after you eat. With that said, a normal level would be around 100mg/dL in the morning when you wake up before eating or drinking anything. If you don't know what your glucose level is, I would strongly advise getting it checked as soon as you can. It could save you potential health problems down the road.
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