Glucose (dextrose) is a monosaccharide that is a universal source of energy for humans. This is the final product of the hydrolysis of di- and polysaccharides. Connection is open English doctor William Prout in 1802.
Glucose or grape sugar is an essential nutrient for the human central nervous system. It ensures the normal functioning of the body under strong physical, emotional, intellectual stress and fast reaction brain to force majeure situations. In other words, glucose is a jet fuel that supports all life processes at the cellular level.
The structural formula of the compound is C6H12O6.
Glucose is crystalline substance sweet taste, odorless, highly soluble in water, concentrated solutions sulfuric acid, zinc chloride, Schweitzer's reagent. In nature it is formed as a result of plant photosynthesis, in industry - through the hydrolysis of cellulose.
The molar mass of the compound is 180.16 grams per mole.
The sweetness of glucose is half that of sucrose.
Used in cooking and medical industry. Preparations based on it are used to relieve intoxication and determine the presence of diabetes mellitus.
Let's look at hyperglycemia/hypoglycemia - what it is, the benefits and harms of glucose, where it is found, and its use in medicine.
Daily norm
To nourish brain cells, red blood cells, striated muscles and provide the body with energy, a person needs to eat “his” individual norm. To calculate it, multiply your actual body weight by a factor of 2.6. The resulting value is daily requirement your body in a monosaccharide.
At the same time, employees mental work (office employees), those performing computational and planning operations, athletes and people experiencing heavy physical activity, the daily norm should be increased. Because these operations require more energy.
The need for glucose decreases with a sedentary lifestyle, a tendency to diabetes, and excess weight. IN in this case To produce energy, the body will not use easily digestible saccharide, but fat reserves.
Remember, glucose in moderate doses is medicine and fuel for internal organs, systems. At the same time, excessive consumption of sweets turns it into poison, turning its beneficial properties into harm.
Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia
U healthy person The fasting blood glucose level is 3.3 - 5.5 millimoles per liter, after eating it rises to 7.8.
If this indicator below normal – hypoglycemia develops, above – hyperglycemia. Any deviations from permissible value cause disturbances in the body, often irreversible disorders.
Elevated blood glucose increases insulin production, which leads to intensive work pancreas "for wear and tear". As a result, the organ begins to deplete, there is a risk of developing diabetes, and the immune system suffers. When the concentration of glucose in the blood reaches 10 millimoles per liter, the liver ceases to cope with its functions, and the functioning of the circulatory system is disrupted. Excess sugar is converted into triglycerides (fat cells), which provoke the appearance of coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, hypertension, heart attack, and cerebral hemorrhages.
The main reason for the development of hyperglycemia is disruption of the functioning of the pancreas.
Foods that lower blood sugar:
- oatmeal;
- lobsters, lobsters, crabs;
- blueberry juice;
- tomatoes, Jerusalem artichoke, black currant;
- soy cheese;
- lettuce, pumpkin;
- green tea;
- avocado;
- meat, fish, chicken;
- lemon, grapefruit;
- almonds, cashews, peanuts;
- legumes;
- watermelon;
- garlic and onion.
A drop in blood glucose leads to insufficient nutrition of the brain, weakening of the body, which sooner or later leads to fainting. A person loses strength, muscle weakness, apathy appear, physical activity is difficult, coordination worsens, a feeling of anxiety and confusion arises. Cells are in a state of starvation, their division and regeneration slow down, and the risk of tissue death increases.
Causes of hypoglycemia: alcohol poisoning, lack of sweet foods in the diet, cancer, thyroid dysfunction.
To maintain blood glucose within normal limits, pay attention to the operation of the insular apparatus, enrich your daily menu with healthy natural sweets containing monosaccharides. Remember low level Insulin interferes with the complete absorption of the compound, resulting in hypoglycemia. At the same time, adrenaline, on the contrary, will help increase it.
Benefits and harms
The main functions of glucose are nutritional and energy. Thanks to them, it maintains heartbeat, breathing, muscle contraction, brain function, nervous system and regulates body temperature.
The value of glucose in the human body:
- Participates in metabolic processes and is the most digestible energy resource.
- Supports the body's performance.
- Nourishes brain cells, improves memory and learning.
- Stimulates the heart.
- Quickly quenches the feeling of hunger.
- Relieves stress, corrects mental state.
- Accelerates the recovery of muscle tissue.
- Helps the liver in neutralizing toxic substances.
For how many years has glucose been used to intoxicate the body during hypoglycemia? The monosaccharide is part of blood substitutes, anti-shock drugs used to treat diseases of the liver and central nervous system.
Besides positive influence, glucose can harm the body of people in old age, patients with impaired metabolism and lead to the following consequences:
- obesity;
- development of thrombophlebitis;
- overload of the pancreas;
- the occurrence of allergic reactions;
- increased cholesterol;
- the appearance of inflammatory, heart diseases, coronary circulation disorders;
- arterial hypertension;
- damage to the retina of the eye;
- endothelial dysfunction.
Remember, the delivery of monosaccharide to the body must be fully compensated by the expenditure of calories for energy needs.
Sources
The monosaccharide is found in animal muscle glycogen, starch, berries and fruits. A person receives 50% of the energy needed by the body from glycogen (deposited in the liver and muscle tissue) and the consumption of glucose-containing foods.
Main natural spring compounds - honey (80%), it also contains another healthy carbohydrate - fructose.
| Product name | Monosaccharide content per 100 grams, grams |
|---|---|
| Rafinated sugar | 99,7 |
| Bee Honey | 80,1 |
| Marmalade | 79,2 |
| Gingerbread | 77,6 |
| Pasta | 70,5 |
| Sweet straw | 69,1 |
| Dates | 69,0 |
| Pearl barley | 66,8 |
| Dried apricots | 66,1 |
| Raisin | 65,6 |
| Apple jam | 65,0 |
| Chocolate | 63,2 |
| Rice | 62,2 |
| Oatmeal | 61,7 |
| Corn | 61,3 |
| Buckwheat | 60,3 |
| White bread | 52,8 |
| Rye bread | 44,2 |
| Ice cream | 21,2 |
| Potato | 8,0 |
| Apples | 7,8 |
| Grape | 7,7 |
| Beet | 6,6 |
| Carrot | 5,6 |
| Cherry | 5,4 |
| Cherries | 5,4 |
| Milk | 4,4 |
| Gooseberry | 4,3 |
| Pumpkin | 4,1 |
| Legumes | 4,1 |
| Cabbage | 4,0 |
| Raspberries | 3,8 |
| Tomatoes | 3,3 |
| Cottage cheese | 3,2 |
| Sour cream | 3,0 |
| Plums | 3,0 |
| Liver | 2,7 |
| Strawberry | 2,6 |
| Cranberry | 2,4 |
| Watermelon | 2,3 |
| Oranges | 2,3 |
| 2,1 | |
| Tangerines | 2,0 |
| Cheese | 2,0 |
| Peaches | 2,0 |
| Pear | 1,7 |
| Black currant | 1,4 |
| cucumbers | 1,2 |
| Oil | 0,4 |
| Eggs | 0,3 |
Glucose in medicine: release form
Glucose preparations are classified as detoxification and metabolic agents. Their spectrum of action is aimed at improving metabolic and redox processes in the body. The active ingredient of these medications is dextrose monohydrate (sublimated glucose in combination with excipients).
Release forms and pharmacological properties of the monosaccharide:
- Tablets containing 0.5 grams of dry dextrose. When taken orally, glucose has a vasodilator and sedative effect (moderately pronounced). In addition, the drug replenishes energy reserves, increasing intellectual and physical productivity.
- Solution for infusion. In a liter of 5% glucose there are 50 grams of anhydrous dextrose, in a 10% composition - 100 grams of the substance, in a 20% mixture - 200 grams, in a 40% concentrate - 400 grams of saccharide. Considering that a 5% saccharide solution is isotonic with respect to blood plasma, the introduction of the drug into the bloodstream helps to normalize the acid-base and water-electrolyte balance in the body.
- Solution for intravenous injection. A milliliter of 5% concentrate contains 50 milligrams of dried dextrose, 10% - 100 milligrams, 25% - 250 milligrams, 40% - 400 milligrams. When administered intravenously, glucose increases osmotic blood pressure, dilates blood vessels, increases urine formation, enhances the outflow of fluid from tissues, activates metabolic processes in the liver, and normalizes the contractile function of the myocardium.
In addition, the saccharide is used for artificial therapeutic nutrition, including enteral and parenteral.
In what cases and in what dosage is “medical” glucose prescribed?
Indications for use:
- hypoglycemia (low blood sugar concentration);
- lack of carbohydrate nutrition (with mental and physical overload);
- rehabilitation period after protracted illnesses, including infectious ones (as additional nutrition);
- decompensation of cardiac activity, intestinal infectious pathologies, liver diseases, hemorrhagic diathesis (in complex therapy);
- collapse (sudden drop in blood pressure);
- dehydration caused by vomiting, diarrhea, or surgery;
- intoxication or poisoning (including drugs, arsenic, acids, carbon monoxide, phosgene);
- to increase the size of the fetus during pregnancy (in case of suspected low weight).
In addition, “liquid” glucose is used for dilution medicines, administered parenterally.
Isotonic glucose solution (5%) is administered in the following ways:
- subcutaneously (single serving - 300 - 500 milliliters);
- intravenous drip ( maximum speed administration - 400 milliliters per hour, daily norm for adults – 500 – 3000 milliliters, daily dose for children – 100 – 170 milliliters of solution per kilogram of child’s weight, for newborns this figure is reduced to 60);
- in the form of enemas (a single portion of the substance varies from 300 to 2000 milliliters, depending on the age and condition of the patient).
Hypertonic glucose concentrates (10%, 25% and 40%) are used for intravenous injections only. Moreover, no more than 20–50 milliliters of solution are administered at one time. However, in case of large blood losses or hypoglycemia, hypertonic fluid is used for infusion (100 - 300 milliliters per day).
Remember, the pharmacological properties of glucose are enhanced (1%), insulin, methylene blue (1%).
Glucose tablets are taken orally, 1 to 2 tablets per day (if necessary, the daily portion is increased to 10 tablets).
Contraindications to taking glucose:
- diabetes;
- pathologies accompanied by an increase in blood sugar concentration;
- individual glucose intolerance.
Side effects:
- overhydration (due to the introduction of volumetric portions of an isotonic solution);
- decreased appetite;
- necrosis of subcutaneous tissue (when a hypertonic solution gets under the skin);
- acute heart failure;
- inflammation of the veins, thrombosis (due to rapid administration of the solution);
- dysfunction of the insular apparatus.
Remember, too rapid administration of glucose is fraught with hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis, hypervolemia, and hyperglucosuria.
Conclusion
Glucose is an important nutrient for the human body.
Monosaccharide consumption should be reasonable. Excessive or insufficient intake undermines the immune system, disrupts metabolism, causes health problems (imbalances the functioning of the cardiac, endocrine, nervous systems, reduces brain activity).
So that the body is on high level performance and received enough energy, avoid exhausting physical activity, stress, monitor the functioning of the liver and pancreas, eat healthy carbohydrates (cereals, fruits, vegetables, dried fruits, honey). At the same time, avoid taking “empty” calories such as cakes, pastries, sweets, cookies, and waffles.
What is glucose? Everyone uses it, but few can define it. This is a substance that the human body needs. People's health depends on the timely supply of glucose.
Carbohydrates, proteins and fats can supply energy to the body. But glucose is a substance that occupies a major place among those used for energy needs.
Definition
Glucose, also called dextrose, is a white or colorless powder that is odorless and has a sweet taste. Glucose is a substance that can be called a universal fuel for the human body. After all most of energy needs are covered precisely by it. It must be present in the blood constantly. But it should be noted that its excess, as well as its deficiency, is dangerous. During hunger, the body feeds on what it is built from. In this case, muscle proteins are converted into glucose. This can be extremely dangerous.
Physical properties of glucose
What is glucose? As stated earlier, it is a colorless, sweet crystalline substance. It dissolves very well in water. Glucose is found in almost all plant organs: flowers, roots, fruits and leaves. A very large amount of glucose is found in ripe berries and fruits, as well as grape juice. It is also present in animal organisms. The proportion of the substance in human blood is approximately one tenth of a percent.
Chemical properties of glucose
What is glucose? This substance belongs to the formula - C6H12O6. If a glucose solution is added to a freshly precipitated solution, a bright blue solution will be obtained. In order to have full view about the structure of a substance, you need to know how the glucose molecule is built. Since six oxygen atoms are included in functional groups, the carbon atoms that form the backbone of the molecule are bonded directly to each other.
Contains molecules with an open chain of atoms, as well as cyclic ones. What is glucose? This is a substance that has dual chemical nature. It forms esters and oxidizes. A glucose cell can be broken down into two lactic acid cells and free energy. This process is called glycolysis. The glucose molecule exists in three isomeric forms. One of them is linear, and the other two are cyclic.
Glucose and food
IN human body glucose comes with carbohydrates. After entering the intestines, they are broken down, turning into glucose, which then enters the blood. Some part of the substance is spent on the energy needs of the body, the other is deposited in the form of fat reserves. Some glucose is stored in the form of a substance called glycogen. After food is digested and the flow of glucose into the blood from the intestines stops, the process of converting glycogen and fats back into glucose begins. In this way, the human body maintains a constant level of glucose in the blood. In general, the process of converting fats and proteins into glucose and back takes quite for a long time. But the same process with glucose and glycogen occurs much faster. It is for this reason that glycogen is the main storage carbohydrate.
Hormone regulators
The process of converting glucose into glycogen and vice versa is regulated by hormones. Insulin reduces the concentration of glucose in a person's blood. It is increased by hormones such as adrenaline, glucagon, and cortisol. If any disturbances occur in the passage of such reactions between glycogen and glucose, a person may experience serious illness. One of them is diabetes mellitus.
How to measure blood glucose?
Measuring blood glucose is the main test done to detect diabetes. In venous and capillary blood, glucose levels are different. It can fluctuate due to a person's hunger or satiety. When measured on an empty stomach (at least eight hours after eating), the glucose content in venous blood should be from 3.3 to 5.5 millimoles per liter, and in capillary blood it should be slightly higher - from 4 to 6.1 millimoles per liter. A couple of hours after eating, the level of the substance should not be higher than 7.8 millimoles per liter. This applies to both venous and capillary blood. If within a week, when measuring on an empty stomach, the glucose level does not fall below 6.3 millimoles per liter, you should immediately consult an endocrinologist and conduct additional examination.
Exceeding blood glucose levels
This situation is called hyperglycemia. It develops most often with diabetes mellitus. What can cause an increase in glucose levels? The reason may be:
- diabetes;
- stress, strong emotional tension;
- myocardial infarction;
- diseases of the kidneys, pancreas and endocrine system;
- moderate physical activity.
When stressful situations occur, blood glucose may increase. This occurs due to the fact that the human body, responding to similar situation, begins to release stress hormones. And they just increase Hyperglycemia different degrees severity: from mild to moderate to coma when glucose levels exceed 55.5 millimoles per liter.
Low blood glucose
This phenomenon is called hypoglycemia. This is a condition when the concentration of a substance in the blood is less than 3.3 millimoles per liter. What are the clinical manifestations of hypoglycemia? These may be: muscle weakness, severe sweating, confusion, lack of coordination.
Blood glucose levels decrease due to factors such as:
- malnutrition or starvation;
- diseases of the liver and pancreas;
- strong physical activity;
- diseases of the endocrine system;
- insulin overdose.
If hypoglycemia is very severe, a person may go into a hypoglycemic coma.
Glucose and medicine
A solution of this substance is used in the treatment large number diseases due to lack of glucose. They are also bred by some medications before inserting them into a vein.
Glucose is a very necessary substance that plays important role in the functioning of the human body.
Application
Glucose is very nutritious. Starch contained in food enters the digestive tract and is converted into glucose. From there it spreads throughout the body. Since this substance is very easily absorbed by the body, and also gives it energy as a strengthening remedy.
Since it is sweet, it is also used in confectionery. Glucose is a sugar found in molasses, caramel, marmalade, and gingerbread. In general, all that are called sugars are divided into two types: glucose, fructose. And most often one product contains a mixture of them. An example is table sugar, in which these two substances are found in equal quantities.
It is worth remembering that too much consumption of sweets is harmful to the human body. After all, diseases such as obesity, caries, and diabetes arise. Life is shortened because of this. Therefore, you need to carefully monitor your diet and consume all the necessary substances within normal limits. Then everything will be fine with your health.
Molecule structure.
When studying the composition of glucose, it was found that it simplest formula CH 2 O, a molar mass 180 g/mol. From this we can conclude that molecular formula glucose C 6 H 12 O 6.
To establish structural formula glucose molecules, you need to know its chemical properties. It has been experimentally proven that one mole of glucose reacts with five moles acetic acid with education ester. This means that there are five hydroxyl groups in a glucose molecule. Since glucose with an ammonia solution of silver oxide gives a “silver mirror” reaction, its molecule must also contain an aldehyde group.
It has also been experimentally proven that glucose has an unbranched carbon chain.
Based on these data, the structure of the glucose molecule can be expressed in the following way:
Biological significance of glucose, its use.
Glucose - necessary component food, one of the main participants in metabolism in the body, is very nutritious and easily digestible. During its oxidation, more than a third of the energy resource used in the body is released - fats, but the role of fats and glucose in energy different organs different. The heart uses fatty acids as fuel. Skeletal muscles need glucose to “start”, but nerve cells, including brain cells, work only on glucose. Their need is 20-30% of the generated energy. Nerve cells Energy is needed every second, and the body receives glucose when eating. Glucose is easily absorbed by the body, so it is used in medicine as a strengthening remedy. Specific oligosaccharides determine blood type. In confectionery for making marmalade, caramel, gingerbread, etc. Great importance have glucose fermentation processes. So, for example, when pickling cabbage, cucumbers, and milk, lactic acid fermentation of glucose occurs, as well as when ensiling feed. In practice, it is used alcoholic fermentation glucose, for example, in the production of beer. Cellulose is the starting material for the production of silk, cotton wool, and paper.
Carbohydrates are really the most common organic matter on Earth, without which the existence of living organisms is impossible.
In a living organism, during metabolism, glucose is oxidized to release large quantity energy:
Application.
Glucose refers to carbohydrates and is one of the products metabolism human and animal bodies. In metabolism, glucose has mainly energy value. At complete collapse 1 g of glucose releases 17.15 kJ (4.1 kcal) of heat. The energy released during this process ensures the activity of the body's cells. The energy value of glucose is especially high for such intensively functioning organs as the central nervous system, heart, and muscles. In this regard, glucose is widely used as tonic for many chronic diseases accompanied by physical exhaustion.
Glucose increases the liver’s ability to neutralize various poisons, which largely explains the antitoxic properties of glucose. In addition, in case of poisoning, the use of large quantities of glucose solutions is accompanied by a decrease in the concentration of poisons in the blood due to an increase in the mass of fluid circulating in the vessels and increased urination.
1.Polysaccharides (glycans) are molecules of polymeric carbohydrates connected by a long chain, united together by a glycosidic bond, and upon hydrolysis they become integral part monosaccharides or oligosaccharides
2. Physical properties of starch. It is a white powder, insoluble in cold water. hot water swells to form a paste.
.Being in nature
Starch is the main source of reserve energy in plant cells– formed in plants during photosynthesis and accumulates in tubers, roots, seeds: 6CO 2 + 6H 2 O light, chlorophyll→ C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6O 2
nC 6 H 12 O 6 → (C 6 H 10 O 5) n + nH 2 O
glucose starch
Contained in potato tubers, grains of wheat, rice, corn. Glycogen (animal starch) is formed in the liver and muscles of animals.
.Biological role.
Starch is one of the products of photosynthesis, the main nutritional reserve substance plants. Starch is the main carbohydrate in human food.
3. 1) Under the action of enzymes or when heated with acids (hydrogen ions serve as a catalyst), starch, like all complex carbohydrates, undergoes hydrolysis. In this case, soluble starch is formed first, then less complex substances- dextrins. The final product of hydrolysis is glucose. Can be expressed summary equation reactions as follows:
There is a gradual breakdown of macromolecules. Hydrolysis of starch - its important chemical property.
-glucose. The process of starch formation can be expressed as follows (polycondensation reaction): a2) Starch does not give the “silver mirror” reaction, but the products of its hydrolysis do. Starch macromolecules consist of many cyclic molecules
3) Characteristic reaction is the interaction of starch with iodine solutions. If an iodine solution is added to a cooled starch paste, a blue color appears. When the paste is heated, it disappears, and when cooled, it appears again. This property is used when determining starch in food products. For example, if a drop of iodine is applied to a cut potato or a slice of white bread, a blue color appears.
4.cellulose structure
Cellulose is a substance widely distributed in plant
world. It is found in both annual and perennial plants, in particular in tree species.
Modern theory the structure of cellulose answers the following basic questions:
Structure of cellulose macromolecules: chemical structure elementary unit and macromolecule as a whole; conformation of the macromolecule and its units.
Molecular mass cellulose and its polydispersity.
Cellulose structure: equilibrium phase state cellulose (amorphous or crystalline); types of bonds between macromolecules; supramolecular structure; structural heterogeneity of cellulose; structural modifications of cellulose.
2) The structure of the cellulose macromolecule can be represented by the formula
5.hydrolysis of cellulose
С6Н10О5)n +nH2O=nC6H12O6 beta-glucose
Acetate fibers- one of the main types of artificial fibers; obtained from cellulose acetate. Depending on the type of feedstock, a distinction is made between triacetate fiber (from triacetylcellulose) and acetate fibers
Viscose- (from Late Lat. viscosus- chilly) highly viscous concentrated solution of cellulose xanthate in a dilute NaOH solution.
7. CELLULOSE is the main part of plant walls. (Figure “Natural materials containing cellulose” - slide 7, lesson 21). Relatively pure cellulose are fibers from cotton, jute and hemp. Wood contains from 40 to 50% cellulose, straw - 30%. Plant cellulose serves nutrient for herbivores whose bodies contain enzymes that break down fiber.
From cellulose (numerous artificial fibers, polymer films, plastics, smokeless powder, varnishes are made. A large amount of cellulose is used for the production of paper. By saccharification of cellulose, glucose is obtained; used for manufacturing ethyl alcohol. Ethanol, n
Glucose (or dextrose) is the most important simple sugar, which is part of all important polysaccharides (glycogen, cellulose, dextrin, starch, etc.) and participates in the metabolic processes of the body. This substance belongs to the subclass of monosaccharides of the class of saccharides (carbohydrates) and is colorless crystals that have a sweet taste and are highly soluble in various liquids: water, ammonia solution copper hydroxide, concentrated solutions of zinc chloride and sulfuric acid.
Glucose is found in berries and fruit juices, vegetables, various parts plants, as well as in the tissues of living organisms. Due to the high content of grape fruits (they contain 7.8% glucose), it is also sometimes called grape sugar.
Glucose in the body of animals and humans plays the role of the most important source of energy and ensures the normal course of metabolic processes. Without exception, all cells of living organisms have the ability to absorb it, while only some types are endowed with the ability to use free fatty acids, fructose, lactic acid or glycerol as energy sources.
Glucose is the most common carbohydrate in animal organisms. It is the connecting thread between the energetic and plastic functions of carbohydrates, since it is from glucose that all other monosaccharides are formed, and they are converted into it. In the liver, lactic acid can be converted into glucose, most of the free fatty acids, glycerol, amino acids, glucuronic acid, glycoproteins. This process is called gluconeogenesis. Another conversion method is glycogenolysis. It proceeds through several metabolic chains, and its essence lies in the fact that energy sources that do not have straight path biochemical conversion into glucose, are used by the liver for the synthesis of adenosine triphosphates (ATP) and are subsequently involved in the processes of energy supply of gluconeogenesis (the process of glucose formation in the body by liver cells and, to a small extent, by the renal cortex), resynthesis of glucose from lactic acid, as well as energy ensuring the synthesis of glycogen from glucose monomers.
Over 90% of soluble low molecular weight carbohydrates contained in the blood of living organisms are glucose. The remaining few percent are fructose, maltose, mannose, pentose, protein-bound polysaccharides, and in the event of the development of any pathological processes, also galactose.
The most intensive consumption of glucose in the body occurs in the tissues of the central nervous system, in red blood cells, and also in the medulla of the kidneys.
The main form of glucose storage in the body is glycogen, a polysaccharide formed from its residues. The mobilization of glycogen in the body begins when the amount of free glucose contained in the cells and, consequently, in the blood decreases. Glycogen synthesis occurs in almost all tissues of the body, however, the largest amount is found in the liver and skeletal muscles. The process of glycogen accumulation in muscle tissue begins during periods of recovery after physical activity, especially after eating a meal rich in carbohydrates. In the liver, it accumulates immediately after eating or during hyperglycemia.
However, the energy that is released as a result of the “combustion” of glycogen is enough for an average person with average physical development, if used fairly carefully, for no more than one day. Therefore, glycogen is a kind of “emergency reserve” of the body, designed for emergency situations when, for some reason, the flow of glucose into the blood stops (including during forced night fasts and in the intervals between meals). In such cases, the largest share of glucose consumption in the body occurs in the brain. Glucose is generally the only energy substrate that ensures its vital functions. This is due to the fact that brain cells do not have the ability to synthesize it themselves.
The use of glucose in the body, obtained as a result of the breakdown of glycogen, begins approximately three hours after eating, immediately after which the accumulation process begins again. Glucose deficiency is relatively painless and without serious consequences for humans. negative consequences in cases where during the day its quantity can be normalized with the help of nutrition.
Physiological regulation of glucose levels in the body
The body's ability to maintain normal blood glucose concentrations is one of the most advanced mechanisms for maintaining relative constancy internal environment(homeostasis) with which it is endowed. Its normal functioning is ensured by:
- Liver;
- Individual hormones;
- Extrahepatic tissues.
Regulation of blood glucose levels is carried out by the products of 30-40 genes. Thanks to their interaction, the required glucose concentration is maintained even when the foods that are its source are included in the diet irregularly and unevenly.
In the interval between meals, the amount of glucose contained ranges from 80 to 100 mg/100 ml. After a meal (especially one containing a large amount of carbohydrates), this figure is 120-130 mg/100 ml. During periods of fasting, the glucose level in the body drops to 60-70 mg/100 ml. Metabolic breakdown processes can also contribute to its reduction, especially in stressful situations, with an increase in the level of physical activity, as well as with an increase in body temperature.
Impaired glucose tolerance
Impaired glucose tolerance is a prerequisite for the development of certain diseases (for example, type II diabetes mellitus) or complex dysfunction of the cardiovascular system and metabolic processes (the so-called metabolic syndrome). With disturbances in carbohydrate metabolism and the development of metabolic syndrome, complications may arise that can lead to premature death of a person. Among them, the most common are hypertension and myocardial infarction.
Glucose tolerance, as a rule, is impaired against the background of other pathological processes in the body. This is greatly facilitated by:
- increased blood pressure;
- elevated cholesterol levels;
- elevated triglycerides;
- increased levels of low-density lipoproteins;
- reducing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.
In order to reduce the likelihood of an increase in disorders, patients are recommended to follow a number of measures, including monitoring body weight (in particular, if necessary, reducing it), including healthy food, increasing the level of physical activity, healthy image life.
The human body is a complex mechanism in which everything is subordinated to the correct interaction of organs and systems, as well as maintaining important biological indicators. One of these indicators is blood sugar level.
What is glucose and what are its functions
Sugar, or scientifically, glucose, is a valuable organic compound, responsible for providing the body's cells with energy. In fact, it is a complex carbohydrate that enters our body with food.
People far from medicine may think that glucose only causes harm to the body, since it causes weight gain and provokes obesity. Nevertheless, glucose is an essential substance for humans and here’s why.
When a complex carbohydrate, glucose, enters the body, it is broken down into two simple carbohydrates - fructose and galactose. Sugar then enters the bloodstream, which carries it throughout the body. Some of the simple carbohydrates are used to replenish the energy expended by a person, and the other part is stored in reserve in muscles, adipose tissue and liver, in the form of glycogen. After the process of digesting food is completed, reverse reactions begin in the body, which means hormones are produced that convert glycogen back into glucose. This allows you to maintain proper level blood sugar, which means maintaining the body’s performance and high tone.
The main hormone that is synthesized by the pancreas to maintain normal level glucose in the blood is insulin.
Main functions of glucose:
- participates in metabolic processes, ensuring the proper functioning of all organs and systems;
- provides the body with energy, allowing a person to feel in good shape throughout the day;
- nourishes the brain with energy, maintaining mental clarity, supporting memory, attention and other cognitive functions;
- supports a person’s emotional state, strengthening nervous system and helping the body resist stress;
- provides quick saturation of the body;
- stimulates the work of the heart muscle;
- helps the liver excrete toxic substances and slags;
- triggers regeneration processes in muscles.
However, with all the variety of beneficial properties of glucose, you need to understand that it benefits the body only when its level in the blood does not go beyond normal limits. IN otherwise Sugar begins to cause serious harm to the body.
Harmful effects of glucose on the body:
- promotes weight gain and causes obesity;
- provokes the occurrence of allergic reactions;
- increases blood cholesterol levels;
- causes problems with blood circulation;
- increases blood pressure;
- worsens the condition of the heart muscle;
- changes the condition of the fundus.
Signs of abnormal blood sugar levels
Knowledge of glucose levels and regular monitoring of these indicators allows for timely detection and prevention of serious illnesses. By the way, a person can determine by his own health that his glucose level is outside the normal range.
A condition in which there is an increased level of glucose in the blood is called hyperglycemia. This is the most dangerous condition that threatens a person with a host of health problems, in particular the development of diabetes.
Signs of hyperglycemia:
- lethargy, apathy and constant fatigue;
- thirst and dry mouth;
- frequent urge to urinate;
- vision problems;
- smell of acetone from the mouth;
- allergic manifestations;
- increased blood pressure;
- weight loss;
- the appearance of problems with the heart and blood circulation;
- tingling in the legs.
In addition, with prolonged disturbances in blood glucose levels, diagnostic studies show changes in the fundus of the eye, which can lead to cataracts and glaucoma, as well as an increase in blood cholesterol levels, hinting at the development of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis.
A condition in which a person has low blood glucose levels is called hypoglycemia. It threatens health to a lesser extent, but this condition cannot be ignored.
Signs of hypoglycemia:
- tachycardia;
- frequent irritability;
- nightmares;
- sudden loss of strength;
- sleepwalking;
- morning headaches;
- excessive sweating;
- blurred vision;
- fainting and loss of consciousness;
- erection problems;
- weight gain.
How to test your sugar level
The above symptoms may indicate the development of various diseases, and therefore a person with similar symptoms should visit a doctor and take a blood test to determine the glycemic level.
To determine the level of glucose in the blood, the test must be taken in the morning, between 8 and 11 o'clock, and always on an empty stomach. It is important to prepare for this procedure, for which you need:
- do not eat food 8–10 hours before the test (you are allowed to drink only clean water);
- 24 hours before the test, you should not drink alcoholic beverages;
- you can't chew chewing gum before blood collection;
- You should not brush your teeth before taking the test;
- You cannot take the test if you spent the night without sleep, if you are upset or overexcited;
- Before taking blood, you should spend 15–20 minutes in a quiet environment, preferably sitting, so that your heart rate returns to normal and your blood pressure returns to normal.
If the analysis shows a deviation from normal parameters, it is recommended to take it again after 3-4 days. The most accurate result can be obtained by taking venous blood for analysis, however, this research method is used in extreme cases when the patient is suspected of having impaired glucose levels.
In addition, each person testing their blood sugar levels should understand that the following factors can influence the diagnostic results:
- consumption of sweet foods (for example, sweet tea);
- severe fatigue;
- nervous tension;
- premenstrual syndrome;
- pregnancy.
In addition, people who suffer from diabetes or have a predisposition to this disease should always have a special portable device - a glucometer - at hand. This medical device shows blood sugar levels in a matter of seconds, which means it gives a person information regarding possible further actions to maintain their own health.
Blood sugar levels
Ideally, blood sugar levels in both sexes should range between 3.3–5.5 mmol/L. This is an indicator of blood donated on an empty stomach, taking into account that the person did not eat for 8 hours and did not consume sugary foods the night before. During the day, after lunch or dinner, sugar levels will increase.
If venous blood is taken from an adult in the morning on an empty stomach, it normal indicators should be between 6.1–7 mmol/l.
Pre-diabetic condition. Experts give this verdict if two blood tests show a sugar level of 6.9–7.7 mmol/l.
Diabetes. This diagnosis can be made if the patient's blood sugar level exceeds 7.7 mmol/l for a long time.
Normal blood sugar levels in men
It should be noted that the indicator under consideration seriously depends on age, and therefore when talking about the sugar norm, you need to take into account the man’s age. Let's look at normal indicators depending on age:
- for men 14–50 years old – 3.9–5.8 mmol/l;
- for men 50–60 years old – 4.4–6.2 mmol/l;
- for men 60–90 years old – 4.6–6.4 mmol/l;
- for men over 90 years old – 4.6–6.7 mmol/l.
As you can see, in men over 50 years of age, the level of glucose in the blood increases significantly. This suggests that men over 50 need to monitor their blood sugar levels especially carefully.
Normal blood sugar levels in women
Normal blood glucose levels for the fairer sex are as follows:
- for girls 16–19 years old – 3.2–5.3 mmol/l;
- for women 20–30 years old – 3.3–5.5 mmol/l;
- for women 30–39 years old – 3.3–5.6 mmol/l;
- for women 40–49 years old – 3.3–5.7 mmol/l;
- for women 50–59 years old – 3.5–6.5 mmol/l;
- for women 60–69 years old – 3.8–6.8 mmol/l;
- for women 70–79 years old – 3.9–6.9 mmol/l;
- for women 80–89 years old – 4.1–7.1 mmol/l.
As in men, in women over 60 years of age, the level of glucose in the blood increases significantly. This suggests that after 60 years of age this indicator is especially important to control.
Blood sugar levels in children
We will separately consider this indicator in children, since from birth to adulthood, blood sugar levels vary significantly.
- for a child up to 1 month – 2.7–3.2 mmol/l;
- for infants 1–5 months – 2.8–3.8 mmol/l;
- for babies 6–9 months – 2.9–4.1 mmol/l;
- for babies under 1 year – 2.9–4.4 mmol/l;
- for children 1–3 years old – 3.0–4.5 mmol/l;
- for children 3–4 years old – 3.2–4.7 mmol/l;
- for children 4–6 years old – 3.3–5.0 mmol/l;
- for children 6–9 years old – 3.3–5.3 mmol/l;
- for adolescents 9–18 years old – 3.3–5.5 mmol/l.
Blood sugar levels during pregnancy
If we talk about pregnant women, then their glucose level should be in the range of 4.6–6.0 mmol/l. Exceeding this value is a deviation that specialists should be aware of. The fact is that exceeding the permissible limit can signal that the expectant mother is overweight, unstable hormone levels or polyhydramnios.
Practice shows that sugar levels can increase in primiparous women, but more often this is observed in representatives of the fairer sex, whose previous births ended in miscarriage or stillbirth.
What to do if your sugar level is low
If the diagnosis shows low sugar levels, it makes sense to think about the causes of hypoglycemia. In most cases this is:
- dehydration;
- alcoholism;
- general exhaustion of the body;
- severe fatigue;
- hormonal deficiency (inhibition of the synthesis of cortisol, glucagon and others);
- high dosages of insulin and hypoglycemic drugs (for “diabetics”);
- poor and unhealthy diet;
- heart, kidney or liver failure;
- menstruation;
- congenital anomalies of an autoimmune nature.
In each of these cases, the specialist will prescribe his own treatment. However, for a patient with such a problem, the doctor prescribes the monosaccharide dextrose. In severe cases, intravenous glucose may be required using a drip.
Diet for hypoglycemia
Let's talk separately about diet, without which it is impossible to cope with hypoglycemia. To follow this diet:
- diversify your diet complex carbohydrates(pasta from coarse wheat varieties and whole grain bread);
- eat foods with fiber more often (potatoes, corn and peas);
- choose lean sources of protein (beans, fish and rabbit meat);
- be sure to include sweet fruits in your daily diet;
- exclude from the diet semolina porridge, pasta made from premium varieties of wheat, fatty and rich foods, strong broths, fatty meat, smoked meats, pepper and mustard;
- limiting the consumption of coffee and carbonated drinks (especially sweet soda);
- try to consume sweets, cookies, store-bought juices and honey as little as possible;
- eat fractionally (about 5-6 r/day), eating food in small portions.
What to do if your sugar level is high
This condition is more dangerous to health, since in most cases it indicates the development of a serious disease called diabetes mellitus. Elevated blood sugar levels are precisely the most important characteristic of this disease.
Other reasons that may affect increased glucose levels include:
- poor nutrition (presence of large amounts of high-calorie foods in the daily diet);
- stress (most often this condition is observed when stress is combined with weakened immunity and local inflammatory process);
- the presence of a severe infectious disease in the body;
- taking certain medications (Pentimidine, Rituximab, niacin, corticosteroids, antidepressants, and beta blockers);
- chronic deficiency of B vitamins in the body.
As in the case of hypoglycemia, in this case it is necessary to act based on the cause of the anomaly. However, in 90% of cases, the presence of hyperglycemia in a patient indicates the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
A patient with this disease needs to take glucose-lowering medications, as well as a special diet, in which foods are divided into prohibited and permitted for consumption.
Products prohibited for hyperglycemia:
- baking from butter and puff pastry;
- candies, cakes and other sweets;
- fatty meat and fish (including fish and meat broths);
- canned and smoked foods;
- curd mass with sugar and cream;
- pickles and marinades;
- milk soups with semolina and rice;
- fatty and spicy sauces;
- pasta;
- salo;
- cheeses;
- sweet fruits (bananas, grapes, raisins, figs and dates);
- drinks with high content Sahara.
Products allowed for hyperglycemia:
- lean meat (chicken, rabbit, veal);
- liver, beef tongue;
- lean fish and seafood;
- beans, beans and lentils;
- low-fat milk and dairy products;
- dairy products;
- eggs (no more than 2 per day);
- porridge with milk and water (buckwheat, pearl barley, barley, oatmeal and millet);
- vegetables (cabbage, zucchini, pumpkin, lettuce);
- unsweetened fruits and berries;
- nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds);
- vegetable juices, fruit drinks and unsweetened tea;
- some sweets (marshmallows, marshmallows, occasionally honey);
- vegetable and butter;
- mushrooms.
Now you know why you need to check your blood sugar levels, and what this indicator can say about your health. Such knowledge will allow you to more carefully monitor the condition of your body and respond correctly to emerging deviations.
Good health to you!