Blood sugar facts for kids

Blood sugar is the amount of glucose present in your blood. Glucose is a type of sugar. It is the main way your body gets energy. Your body's cells use glucose to work properly.

What is Blood Sugar?

Blood sugar is also known as glucose. Glucose is a simple sugar. It comes from the food you eat. Your body breaks down food into glucose. This glucose then travels in your blood. It goes to all your body's cells. Cells use glucose as fuel. This fuel helps them do their jobs.

Why is Blood Sugar Important?

Glucose is very important for your body. It gives energy to your brain. It also powers your muscles and other organs. Without enough glucose, your body cannot work well. Keeping blood sugar at the right level is key. It helps you stay healthy and active.

How Does Your Body Control Blood Sugar?

Your body has a special system. It keeps your blood sugar balanced. A small organ called the pancreas helps with this. The pancreas makes a hormone called insulin. Insulin is like a key. It helps glucose enter your cells.

When Blood Sugar is Too Low

Sometimes, blood sugar can drop too much. This is called hypoglycemia. If your blood sugar is too low, you might feel weak. You could also feel dizzy or shaky. Eating something sugary can help raise it quickly.

When Blood Sugar is Too High

Other times, blood sugar can be too high. This is called hyperglycemia. If your blood sugar stays high, it can be a problem. People with diabetes mellitus often have high blood sugar. Their bodies either do not make enough insulin or do not use it well.

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a health condition. It affects how your body uses blood sugar. There are different types of diabetes.

• Type 1 diabetes: The body does not make insulin. People with Type 1 diabetes need insulin shots.
• Type 2 diabetes: The body does not make enough insulin. Or, it does not use insulin well. This type is more common. It can sometimes be managed with diet and exercise.

Checking Blood Sugar

Doctors can check your blood sugar levels. They do this with a simple blood test. This test helps them see if your levels are healthy. It also helps manage conditions like diabetes.

Images for kids

• 

  A friendly robot, representing technology and health.