What is normal glucose level in adults? Information that saves lives – Teach me the science

Knowing our body’s capabilities and limitations is important to recognize when something is wrong and we need medical examination or laboratory tests. Apart from vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and respiratory rate, it is also necessary to know your glucose levels to prevent metabolic diseases such as diabetes and all its consequences.

You may have repeatedly wondered what the normal amount of glucose in the blood is and how to determine it. Today we are sharing important information that will be very useful to you.

Sugar or glucose?

In order not to create ambiguity, let us clarify that glucose is a type of sugar which is contained in the blood and is the main source of energy for our body. It comes from the food we eat and is transported through the bloodstream to all our cells where it is used as fuel. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps glucose enter cells and be used for energy. Glucose also has other important functions, such as being a structural component of plant cellulose and storing energy in the form of glycogen in the liver and muscles. It is important to maintain proper glucose balance in the body, as high or low glucose levels can cause health problems such as diabetes.

What is a normal glucose level?

glucose level in the blood are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Normal fasting blood glucose levels for adults are:

-Less than 99 mg/dL: normal.

-100 to 125 mg/dL: prediabetes.

-126 mg/dL or more: diabetes.

*Values ​​mentioned may vary depending on population reference values ​​from one clinical laboratory to another.

You can also measure your blood glucose levels after meals. Normal blood glucose levels after meals:

Less than 140 mg/dL: normal.

-140 to 199 mg/dL: prediabetes.

-200 mg/dL or more: diabetes.

Abnormal blood glucose levels may indicate a medical condition such as diabetes, prediabetes, or hypoglycemia.

Diabetes

diabetes This is a chronic disease that affects how the body processes glucose. Glucose is a form of sugar that is the body’s main source of energy. In people with diabetes, the body cannot use glucose effectively. This may lead to increased blood glucose levels.

Diabetes is classified into two main types:

Type 1 diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that destroys the beta cells of the pancreas, the cells that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose.

type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Prediabetes

prediabetes This is a condition that occurs when blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. People with prediabetes have a higher risk of developing diabetes.

Hypoglycemia

The other side of the coin is hypoglycemia, a condition that occurs when blood glucose levels are too low. Hypoglycemia can be caused by various factors, such as diabetes, certain medications, or prolonged fasting.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include:

-Sweating

-Tremor

-Lack of concentration

-Dizziness

-Anxiety

-Confusion

-Loss of consciousness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to eat something or drink fruit juice to increase your blood glucose levels.