Evidence supporting the use of: Glucose
For the body system: Sympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Glucose plays a critical role in supporting the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS), and its use is strongly supported by scientific evidence. The SNS, a branch of the autonomic nervous system, is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body for acute stress or emergencies. Activation of the SNS rapidly increases energy demand, and glucose is the primary and most efficient energy substrate for neurons, including those in the SNS pathways.

During sympathetic activation, hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline stimulate processes like glycogenolysis (breakdown of glycogen to glucose) and gluconeogenesis (production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) to ensure a rapid increase in blood glucose levels. This glucose is then available for immediate use by tissues, especially the brain, nerves, and muscles, allowing for quick responses to stressors. Numerous physiological and biochemical studies have demonstrated that hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) impairs SNS function, leading to symptoms such as weakness, confusion, and decreased ability to respond to stress.

Therefore, glucose is not only justified but essential for optimal SNS function, as supported by decades of research in neurobiology, endocrinology, and physiology. Its use in clinical settings, such as treating acute hypoglycemia to restore SNS and overall nervous system function, further underscores its central role.

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