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Blood sugar levels refer to the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream. Glucose, with the chemical formula C6H12O6, exists in two forms: Alpha Glucose and Beta Glucose.
Glucose is essential for proper bodily function as it is the main reactant in aerobic respiration, alongside oxygen. New supplies of glucose are constantly needed, which is why we breathe continuously to regenerate this supply.
Respiration is one of the seven key characteristics of life, remembered by the mnemonic MRS GREN:
At least four of these characteristics are related to glucose uptake and use, which are critical in understanding diabetes.
Aerobic respiration involves four main stages:
Another type of respiration, anaerobic respiration, occurs when oxygen is not present.
While other reactants like fats and proteins can be used, glucose is the most common starting reactant in aerobic respiration. This is because it does not produce harmful by-products and is used by most living organisms, including animals, plants, and bacteria.
The main products of aerobic respiration are carbon dioxide and water. Additionally, this process generates numerous molecules of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), an unstable molecule that serves as the energy source for many bodily functions.
One molecule of glucose produces 38 molecules of ATP during aerobic respiration, making it a highly efficient process. In contrast, anaerobic respiration produces only 2 molecules of ATP per glucose molecule, highlighting the importance of a constant oxygen supply.
ATP provides energy for vital bodily processes such as digestion, cell division, and muscle contractions, allowing movement. Glucose supplies the energy required for these processes, making it essential for life.
