The Differences Between Glucose & Sucrose

With the increase in type 2 diabetes, health-conscious consumers now focus on the amount of sugar they ingest. They hear terms such as glucose and sucrose and wonder what the difference is between them and what their impact is on the body. Basically, consumers should limit the amount of added sugars (sucrose, fructose, corn or maple syrup), which add calories but not nutrients to food. When it comes to glucose and sucrose, they are not interchangeable terms.

Sucrose

• Sucrose is table sugar. That includes raw sugar, granulated sugar, brown sugar and confectioner's sugar. Sucrose is made by concentrating sugar beet juice or sugar cane. Sucrose is a disaccharide, meaning it is broken down, when ingested, into glucose and fructose. Sucrose is the most common sweetener in the world. It is found in most processed and "junk" foods. It is also considered one of the main causes of tooth decay.

Glucose

• Glucose, a monosaccharide, is a simple sugar found in nature, but the body also makes it. It is the chief energy source for the body. The body makes glucose from proteins, fats, and in large part, carbohydrates. The body gets most of its glucose from ingesting sugar and starch in carbohydrates. The main sources of carbohydrates are foods like grains, pasta, rice, potatoes and fruits. The digestive system, using bile and enzymes, breaks down these starches and sugars (which can include sucrose) and makes glucose.

Factors in Diabetes

• Glucose, also known as dextrose, gets carried through the bloodstream and provides energy to cells. But to do this, it must act in conjunction with insulin, which regulates blood-sugar levels. When glucose levels get too low, it is called hypoglycemia. When glucose levels are too high, it is called hyperglycemia. This irregular fluctuation of glucose levels in the body is known as diabetes.

Everything in Moderation

• In general, sucrose is broken down into glucose, and too much of anything is not good. So consider limiting your intake of sucrose (table sugar) in order to keep your glucose level within acceptable parameters. You'll be healthier for it.