Glucose in blood.
Normal fasting level ranges between 80 and 120 mg/dL or 4 and 6 mmol/L.
Glucose is a six-carbon sugar, which mainly appears in the body as a result of the ingestion of dietary sources containing carbohydrates. Normal blood glucose is approximately 70 to 110 mg/dl, which is the level required for normal function of the central nervous system and other organs and cells. Blood glucose below normal concentrations is referred to as hypoglycemia, while blood glucose greater than normal is hyperglycemia. During rest, glucose enters the cells via the action of glucose transporters. The GLUT-4 transporter appears to be primarily responsible and activated by the hormone insulin. During exercise, insulin levels decline, which suggests that either increased insulin sensitivity is occurring or that glucose is taken up by other mechanisms as well. Since the demand for glucose by the muscles increases during exercise, glucose is released from the liver in the circulation to allow for uptake by the tissues and for the production of energy.
The primary carbohydrate synthesized by the body from the food consumed in one’s diet is commonly known as the main sugar.
The measurement of blood glucose levels provides valuable insights into the body’s metabolic state. Elevated levels of glucose, commonly referred to as blood sugar, can serve as an indication of diabetes mellitus.