Blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, provides energy and helps to maintain neurological functions. When a baby eats, the food is digested and broken down into useful components. Among these are glucose particles, which enter the bloodstream and travel to all of the body's cells. The Stanford School of Medicine states that normal glucose levels for infants are between 40 and 200 mg per deciliter.
Insulin
Blood glucose is regulated within a baby's body by a hormone called insulin. It is secreted by the pancreas, an abdominal organ that aids in digestion. Insulin helps the cells absorb blood glucose to use for energy, and when there is not enough or it does not work properly, glucose remains in the bloodstream instead. This results in high blood sugar levels and low levels of energy, increased hunger and increased thirst. Babies who do not produce adequate insulin can be given synthetic insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia occurs when an infant has low blood glucose. According to the University of California San Francisco Children's Hospital, hypoglycemia occurs in babies who have blood glucose levels at less than 40 mg/dL, and neurological damage can occur in babies who repeatedly have glucose levels less than 50 mg/dL. A baby with hypoglycemia may be jittery, irritable, lethargic, or have seizures. Often, however, there are no apparent symptoms.
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia occurs when blood glucose concentrations are above the range of normal levels. Many babies with hyperglycemia display no symptoms, although some may have excessive urine output. Hyperglycemia is frequently seen in premature infants who are receiving intravenous fluids that contain dextrose, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. A premature baby's body may be too underdeveloped to produce enough insulin to offset the high glucose levels.
Measurements
Infant glucose is checked by pricking the baby's heel with a lancet. A small amount of blood is placed on a test strip, which is then inserted into a glucose meter. The glucose meter measures the blood sugar and gives a result within a few seconds. Infants in the hospital may have blood glucose checks followed by treatment if the levels are high or low. Infants at high risk may need frequent blood glucose monitoring to ensure stable levels.
Conditions
Some situations occur that place infants at risk of abnormal glucose levels, including infants born to mothers who are diabetic; premature infants; babies born with a large birth weight, typically greater than 8 1/2 lbs.; and babies that have underlying illness, such as infection or genetic defects.
