Glucose
(sugar) is the primary energy source for most cells in the
body. After eating, the level of glucose in the blood rises,
until the glucose is absorbed by cells. In individuals with
impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), glucose levels remain high
after eating, meaning that the glucose is not successfully
absorbed. People with IGT often go on to develop diabetes,
a serious condition medical in which the body is unable to
make or use insulin, a hormone
needed for breaking down glucose in the blood.
Further reading: "Sweet
Memories"
by Catherine E. Myers. Copyright © 2006 Memory Loss and the Brain |