Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam Practice 2026 – Comprehensive Prep

Glucose is considered a basic and essential carbohydrate for energy because it serves as the primary source of energy for the body's cells. It is a simple sugar, also known as a monosaccharide, that is easily utilized by the body for energy production through a process called glycolysis. When glucose is metabolized, it undergoes a series of chemical reactions to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy currency of the cell.

In addition to being a quick source of energy, glucose plays a crucial role in maintaining blood sugar levels, providing a constant supply of energy for the brain and muscles during physical activity. It is also important for various physiological processes, as it can be stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for later use when the body needs it.

The other carbohydrates listed, such as fructose and galactose, are also important, but they must first be converted into glucose or utilized in specific metabolic pathways before contributing to the energy needs of the body. Sucrose, being a disaccharide (a combination of glucose and fructose), also requires digestion to break down into its monosaccharide components. Thus, glucose is uniquely vital and direct in its role as an essential energy source for the body