Where Does Glucose Go? A Gentle Guide for T1D Families
Wondering how glucose moves through the body? Let’s explore together so we feel more confident supporting our T1D families, one meal at a time.
As any T1D family knows, there’s a lot to navigate on the diabetes journey. In our own home, we continue to focus on mindset and try to look for the lessons and unexpected gifts that diabetes can bring.
One of the most impactful gifts we’ve found? How in tune you become with your body.
Most people go through life without really understanding blood sugar—what it is, how it works, or why it matters. But in our home, that awareness is front and center. My husband manages his blood sugar 24/7, and through his journey, I’ve also become deeply attuned to the power of blood sugar balance.
Like him, I feel my best when I fuel my body with nourishing meals and steady rhythms. And one of the most powerful tools in our family toolkit? Understanding how food, especially glucose, moves through the body.
It wasn’t until I really started learning the science behind glucose that I thought, Wow. Our bodies are incredible.
Our family also realized we hold so much power in the small, intentional choices we make—especially when it comes to food.
So today, I want to walk through what happens when we eat carbohydrates or sugar. Where does glucose actually go, and why does it matter for our T1D families?
Let’s turn to the science and break it down in a way that’s gentle, practical, and (hopefully!) even fun. Because when we understand what’s happening inside our bodies, we can show up with more clarity and confidence. Let’s dive in!
How Glucose Moves Through the Body
When we eat carbohydrates or sugar, they’re broken down into glucose. That glucose then enters the bloodstream. For those without Type 1 diabetes, the body quickly calls on its master hormone: insulin.
Think of insulin as your body’s “bus driver.” Its job? To pick up glucose in the bloodstream and deliver it to key areas of the body where it can be used or stored for energy.
There are four main “bus stops” where glucose is delivered.
Stop #1: The Brain
Your brain is a high-energy organ that needs a steady stream of glucose to function properly. Interestingly, glucose is so important that it can cross the blood-brain barrier without insulin. This is why the brain is often the first stop!
When this stop gets what it needs, we experience sharper focus, better moods, and more consistent energy.
Stop #2: The Liver
Next, glucose heads to the liver, where it’s stored as glycogen. Think of the liver as your body’s energy bank, helping to regulate blood sugar levels between meals and during sleep.
But here’s the thing: the liver can only hold so much. When it’s full, glucose continues on its journey.
Stop #3: The Muscles
Your muscles also store glycogen and are capable of holding more than your liver. This is one reason why regular movement is such a powerful strategy for supporting blood sugar balance.
When we move, our muscles use stored glycogen. In doing so, they create more “room” to take in new glucose. That’s why gentle, consistent movement is something I encourage with all my coaching clients! It’s not about doing more, but about finding what feels good and supports your family’s rhythm.
Stop #4: Fat Cells
Finally, if the brain, liver, and muscles are all topped off, insulin delivers the leftover glucose to fat cells for long-term storage.
This is a natural process, but when it happens often—especially alongside frequent high-sugar meals or lower movement—it can contribute to imbalances that affect how we feel. Think changes in energy, inflammation, or increased fat storage over time.
For T1D Families
When your child lives with Type 1 Diabetes, their body doesn’t produce insulin on its own. That means the “bus driver” needs outside support, like insulin therapy, to help glucose get where it needs to go.
This may be familiar knowledge for many T1D caregivers, but understanding what’s happening on a cellular level can offer deeper confidence and clarity as you support your child’s blood sugar needs throughout the day.
Why This Matters
When the body is regularly flooded with glucose—especially from meals that are high in sugar or low in nutrients—the “bus stops” (meaning cells) can become overwhelmed. Over time, cells may stop responding to insulin’s signal because they’re already full. As a result, more glucose stays in the bloodstream, and the body looks for other places to store it, like fat cells.
When this happens, blood sugar levels can climb, energy may dip, moods may shift, and the risk of imbalances like weight gain or chronic conditions may increase. Plus, we just don’t feel our best with all that extra sugar in our system.
The encouraging part? When we support blood sugar balance with steady meals and intentional choices, insulin can do its job more effectively. That means more consistent energy, better moods, and greater support for the whole family.
Type Won Tip: Lead with the POWER 3
As we wrap up for today, I want to leave you with one of the simplest ways to support steadier energy and blood sugar: focus on what I call the POWER 3 — Protein, Healthy Fats, and Fiber.
Here are a few ways to explore it:
Eggs, avocado, or high fat nut butter at breakfast
A handful of veggies and hummus as a snack
Grass-fed meats (think burgers or taco night), leafy greens, or fiber-rich roasted veggies like cauliflower at dinner
These small shifts help keep your “bus driver” on course and may lead to steadier energy, fewer crashes, and more balanced moods for everyone at the table.
Final Thoughts
Your body works hard to stay in balance, and the small choices we make each day truly matter.
Whether it’s a mindful meal or learning something new, celebrate that progress! And remember, wherever you are on your diabetes journey, you’re doing amazing work.
Let’s Stay Connected!
If this post resonated with you, or you know someone navigating the T1D journey, I’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe to the Type Won Life™ newsletter!
It’s a space for support, learning, and real-life tools to help you feel steady, strong, and connected in your family’s T1D journey.
Together, let’s keep redefining what it means to thrive with T1D.
With love,
Allee
Disclaimer: The content shared in this post is for informational and educational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your or your child’s healthcare provider before making changes to diabetes management or overall health routines. As a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, my role is to support, guide, and educate—not to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Thank you!