Community Answer

Answered by Dr. Emily Carter, MD

In blood work, GLU stands for glucose, which is a type of sugar that serves as the primary source of energy for your body's cells. Glucose levels in the blood are measured to assess how well your body is managing blood sugar. This is particularly important for diagnosing and monitoring conditions like diabetes and prediabetes.

Normal Blood Glucose Levels:

  • Fasting Blood Sugar (before eating): 70–99 mg/dL
  • Postprandial (2 hours after eating): Less than 140 mg/dL
  • A1C (average over 3 months): Below 5.7%

Why It's Important:

  • High Glucose Levels: May indicate diabetes or prediabetes.
  • Low Glucose Levels: Could suggest hypoglycemia, which can cause symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or fainting.

If your glucose levels are outside the normal range, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Last updated: 1/12/2025

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