Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT)

Glucose (sugar) is the primary energy source for most cells in the body. After eating, the level of glucose in the blood rises, until the glucose is absorbed by cells.

In individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), glucose levels remain high after eating, meaning that the glucose is not successfully absorbed.

People with IGT often go on to develop diabetes, a serious condition medical in which the body is unable to make or use insulin, a hormone needed for breaking down glucose in the blood.

Further reading: "Sweet Memories"

by Catherine E. Myers. Copyright © 2006 Memory Loss and the Brain