Plant carbohydrates, in the form of sugars are the energy source by which all plants carry out their major functions. All plants must photosynthesize, transpire and respire to survive. Sugar plays a vital role in all of these. Simple sugars are made by plants through the process of photosynthesis.

The glucose sugar that is produced during photosynthesis is used during cellular respiration. During cellular respiration the glucose sugar combines with oxygen in order to produce carbon dioxide gas, water, and energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (abbreviated as ATP).

The cellular fate of glucose begins with glucose transport and phosphorylation. Subsequent pathways of glucose utilization include aerobic and anaerobic glycolysis, glycogen formation, and conversion to other intermediates in the hexose phosphate or hexosamine biosynthesis pathways.

The fate of glucose in aerobic respiration in humans is water and carbon dioxide with release of energy. Glucose is the simplest molecule that enters a series of reactions called Glycolysis and the Krebs cycle to produce energy.

– Fate of glucose in anaerobic respiration in the yeast and lactobacillus are ethanol and carbon dioxide. – Fate of glucose in aerobic respiration in the human cells are carbon dioxide and water.

It is best to check your blood sugar immediately after waking up. This will give you the most accurate fasting reading. The general guideline for a fasting blood sugar reading is a blood glucose level between 70 and 130 mg/dL.

When to test

• First thing in the morning, before eating or drinking anything.
• Before each meal.
• After meals and before bedtime.
• Before certain activities, such as driving or using any kind of machine.
• Before and after exercise.
• Whenever you feel odd.