Glucose, a simple sugar with the molecular formula C6H12O6, is the primary source of energy for the body's cells. It is a monosaccharide, a subcategory of carbohydrates, and is also known as dextrose or blood sugar. Plants and algae produce glucose during photosynthesis from water and carbon dioxide.
In humans and animals, glucose is derived from the foods we eat, with the body breaking down most of these foods into glucose and releasing it into the bloodstream. The pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter cells to be used for energy. Excess glucose is stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for later use. Glucose is essential for brain function, as the brain relies on it as its primary energy source for processes like thinking, memory, and learning.
The relationship between cortisol and glucose is also notable. Cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress, can increase blood sugar levels by signaling the liver to release stored glucose. Over time, elevated cortisol levels can lead to insulin resistance, making it harder for cells to absorb glucose, potentially leading to increased blood sugar levels and diabetes-related complications.