blood sugar

The Blood Sugar System

By Shae Brackett, LMT Customer Service & Social Media

The Blood Sugar System
01

Meet The Blood Sugar System

When you consume carbohydrates through foods, the body converts them to glucose, a simple sugar that serves as a vital energy source. The body does not use this energy all at once. It converts some into stored energy, or storage molecules, called glycogen, and stores it in the liver and the muscles. When the body needs this energy, the glucagon in the liver converts it back to glucose. It enters the bloodstream from the liver. Once in the bloodstream, insulin enables it to enter cells to provide energy for the body’s functions. In the pancreas, islet cells release insulin and glucagon. 

The body’s cells need glucose for energy; insulin attaches to insulin receptors on cells throughout the body, signaling them to open and grant glucose entry. Low levels of insulin constantly circulate throughout the body. A spike in insulin signals to the liver, causing it to absorb glucose and change it to glycogen. When blood sugar levels drop, glucagon instructs the liver to convert the glucagon back to glucose, which causes blood sugar levels to return to normal. 

Blood sugar varies throughout the day and can be affected by food, exercise, sleep, stress, tobacco, and alcohol. 

02

Anatomy & Function

Blood glucose, or blood sugar, is the main sugar found in the blood of the body. It is the body’s primary source of energy. This comes from the food we eat. Through the digestive system, the body breaks down most of the food we eat into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. When the blood glucose goes up, this signals the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin and glucagon help to maintain blood sugar levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps the glucose get into the cells to be then used for energy. Glucagon helps to prevent blood sugar from dropping; it breaks down glycogen into glucose in the liver. Both are essential in balancing and regulating blood sugar levels to maintain homeostasis. 
01

Meet The Blood Sugar System

When you consume carbohydrates through foods, the body converts them to glucose, a simple sugar that serves as a vital energy source. The body does not use this energy all at once. It converts some into stored energy, or storage molecules, called glycogen, and stores it in the liver and the muscles. When the body needs this energy, the glucagon in the liver converts it back to glucose. It enters the bloodstream from the liver. Once in the bloodstream, insulin enables it to enter cells to provide energy for the body’s functions. In the pancreas, islet cells release insulin and glucagon. 

The body’s cells need glucose for energy; insulin attaches to insulin receptors on cells throughout the body, signaling them to open and grant glucose entry. Low levels of insulin constantly circulate throughout the body. A spike in insulin signals to the liver, causing it to absorb glucose and change it to glycogen. When blood sugar levels drop, glucagon instructs the liver to convert the glucagon back to glucose, which causes blood sugar levels to return to normal. 

Blood sugar varies throughout the day and can be affected by food, exercise, sleep, stress, tobacco, and alcohol. 

02

Anatomy & Function

Blood glucose, or blood sugar, is the main sugar found in the blood of the body. It is the body’s primary source of energy. This comes from the food we eat. Through the digestive system, the body breaks down most of the food we eat into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. When the blood glucose goes up, this signals the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin and glucagon help to maintain blood sugar levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps the glucose get into the cells to be then used for energy. Glucagon helps to prevent blood sugar from dropping; it breaks down glycogen into glucose in the liver. Both are essential in balancing and regulating blood sugar levels to maintain homeostasis. 

Supporting Systems and Interactions

The human body is a marvel of interconnected systems, each playing a vital role in maintaining balance, health, and vitality. While we often think of the body's organs and processes in isolation, the truth is that no part functions alone. Every system relies on and influences others in a delicate dance of cooperation.

When one system is compromised, others often compensate or respond, illustrating how deeply intertwined all functions are. The body, then, is not just a collection of parts, but an integrated whole, where every aspect plays a crucial role in maintaining the flow of life, energy, and healing. Understanding this interconnectedness allows us to approach health holistically, nurturing not just individual parts, but the whole person.

I am balanced

Fun & Interesting Facts

  • Glucose is the body’s primary energy source and comes from the food we eat.
  • In addition to the foods we eat, other factors affecting blood sugar include sleep, stress, allergies, and sun exposure. 
  • Skipping breakfast and being dehydrated can negatively impact blood sugar levels.

What is necessary for the optimal health of this system? 

Achieving and maintaining a balanced, healthy life requires a holistic approach that recognizes the complex interplay between nutrition, lifestyle, the use of herbs and supplements. Each of these elements plays a unique yet interconnected role in supporting the body's intricate systems.

Together, nutrition, lifestyle, and herbal support create a synergistic approach to health. They nurture the body as a whole, and support the body’s natural ability to heal, adapt, and flourish. Understanding the role each of these elements plays allows us to make more informed choices that contribute to lasting well-being.

Supporting Recipe

Black Bean Brownies

Looking for a delicious way to support blood sugar health? This sugar-free black bean brownie recipe is packed with fiber, protein, and wholesome ingredients. By swapping traditional flours and sugars for nutrient-dense alternatives, these brownies offer a guilt-free dessert option while promoting steady energy levels and overall health. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying mindful of your health.

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About The Author

Shae Brackett our Customer Service Director and Social Media Manager, has been with RidgeCrest since 2016. Shae is the mastermind behind our exceptional customer experience, ensuring every call, email, and customer experience is handled with love and care. She guides the customer care team, our culture caretaker, guiding the employee experience and serving as our creative oracle across Facebook, Instagram, our blog, and meditations.
She describes herself as creative, thoughtful, nature-loving, compassionate, and nurturing. Her favorite herbs are Ginger and Lavender, and she proudly recommends SereniZen® (formerly Anxiety Free), PhysiQOL™, SinusClear®, and Belly Be Happy®.

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