Glucose: The Body's Primary Energy Source - Benefits & Function

Glucose is a form of sugar and the main source of energy for the brain. Sugar is one form of a chemical called a "carbohydrate." Glucose is comprised of six oxygen atoms, six carbon atoms and 12 hydrogen atoms.

Purpose

• Glucose is used to produce energy throughout the body. Glucose is carried in every cell in the body.

Intake

• Foods that contain a high level of carbohydrates produce a lot of glucose. The digestive system breaks the food down into a form of energy that can be used to power things such as lifting your arm or remembering a television station.

Foods

• Foods that contain a large amount of carbohydrates (and subsequently, glucose) include pizza, rice and pasta.

Low Glucose Levels

• Those with low amount of glucose (referred to as "hyperglycemia") in the bloodstream are at a higher risk of developing diabetes.

High Glucose Levels

• Having an excessive level of glucose can increase the odds of having a stroke.

Process

• Glucose is processed in the liver and from there, sent into the bloodstream. Glucose is then distributed throughout the body.