Glucose Metabolism

Definition

Glucose metabolism refers to the process by which our bodies break down sugars for energy. The glucose we consume in food gets converted into energy needed for bodily functions through this metabolic process.

Analogy

Imagine glucose metabolism as a power plant converting coal (glucose) into electricity (energy). Just as power plants convert coal into usable energy, our bodies convert glucose into usable energy for cells.

Related terms

Glycolysis: This is the first step in glucose metabolism where one molecule of glucose breaks down into two molecules of pyruvate.

Glucagon: A hormone produced by pancreas which promotes the breakdown of glycogen to glucose in liver increasing blood sugar levels.

Insulin Resistance: A condition where cells fail to respond normally to insulin leading them unable to take up glucose from blood resulting high blood sugar levels.