Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which substance is commonly referred to as blood sugar?

1. Fructose

2. Galactose

3. Glucose

4. Ribose

The correct answer is: Glucose

The term "blood sugar" specifically refers to glucose, which is a simple sugar that plays a critical role in providing energy to the body's cells. Glucose is produced from the carbohydrates we consume and is vital for normal bodily functions, including brain activity and physical exertion. The concentration of glucose in the blood is tightly regulated by hormones, primarily insulin and glucagon, to ensure that it remains within a healthy range. In contrast, fructose and galactose are also sugars but are processed differently in the body. Fructose is primarily found in fruits and honey, and while it can be converted into glucose, it does not circulate in the blood as blood sugar. Galactose is a component of lactose and is converted into glucose upon metabolism. Ribose, on the other hand, is a sugar involved in the structure of RNA and energy-carrying molecules like ATP but is not referred to as blood sugar. Therefore, glucose is the substance most closely associated with the term "blood sugar" due to its direct impact on energy levels and metabolic processes.