Understanding Urine Glucose on the OAp™ Organic Acids Profile
Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are metabolized into glucose, which is then converted into cellular energy (ATP) through the Krebs cycle.
Glucose in the Cell
Once glucose enters the cell, often facilitated by insulin, it is either utilized immediately via glycolysis — where it’s broken down into pyruvic acid — or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles. Pyruvic acid is then converted to acetyl‑CoA, allowing it to enter the Krebs cycle in the mitochondria to produce ATP.
Glucose in the Blood
Glucose in the bloodstream is filtered by the kidneys, which excrete excess glucose into the urine. The kidneys can only reabsorb a limited amount of glucose, with a typical threshold corresponding to a blood glucose level of ~180 mg/dL. When blood glucose exceeds this threshold — due to conditions like diabetes or renal tubule impairment (e.g., Fanconi syndrome) — glucose appears in the urine.
Glucose in the Urine
Urine glucose is measured on the OAp™ Organic Acids Profile. Glucosuria is defined as the presence of glucose in the urine. While small amounts (<25 mg/dL) can be normal, higher levels require further investigation. Physiologic glucosuria may occur after excessive carbohydrate intake, but persistent urinary glucose levels above 25 mg/dL should prompt evaluation. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory has established reference ranges for urine glucose, with 95% of a healthy population showing levels below 15.2 mg/dl, and 80% below 9.0 mg/dl.
Elevated urine glucose may indicate poor glycemic control. It is advisable to review dietary habits and exercise routines, monitor HbA1c, and assess kidney function. Certain diabetic medications intended to increase urinary excretion of glucose can also contribute to increased levels.
OAp™ Test Detail
Markers to Check on the OAp Organic Acids Test
- Energy and Mitochondrial Processing: Elevated Pyruvic Acid, Lactic Acid, D‑Lactic Acid, and β‑Hydroxybutyric Acid, which may reveal underlying metabolic issues.
- Oxalate Metabolism (Toxic Impacts Section): Increased Glyceric Acid as production is favored during metabolic disturbances.
- Kidney Impacts (Toxic Impacts Section): Increased Microalbumin, which may signal early glucose‑handling dysregulation.
Associated Nutrients:
- Magnesium: Crucial for glucose metabolism; deficiencies can lead to insulin resistance.
- Manganese: Linked to glucose levels, insulin resistance, and kidney function.
Learn more about the markers on the test and how they impact overall health so you can better interpret results.
Author Betsy Redmond, Ph.D., MMSc, RDN
Dr. Redmond has 30 years experience in nutrition with a focus on functional laboratory assessment, research and application. She is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, with a Masters' degree in clinical nutrition from Emory University and a PhD in nutrition from the University of Georgia. Dr. Redmond is the past president of Dietitians in Integrative and Functional Medicine and the recipient of the Excellence in Practice award...
The opinions expressed in this presentation are the author's own. Information is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for personal advice provided by a doctor or other qualified health care professional. Patients should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a health or fitness problem or disease. Patients should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice or information about diagnosis and treatment.
References
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- Liman MNP, J.I., Physiology, Glycosuria. 2021, StatPearls Publishing: Treasure Island, FL.
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- Russell Saneto, S.P., Bruce Cohen, Chapter 12 - Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Deficiency. Mitochondrial Case Studies: Underlying Mechanisms and Diagnosis. 2016: Elsevier.
- Apthorp, G.H., Investigation of the sugar content of urine from normal subjects and patients with renal and hepatic disease by paper chromatography. J Clin Pathol, 1957. 10(1): p. 84-7.
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- Office of Dietary Supplements, Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. 2021; Available from: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/.
- Yang, J., et al., Sex-specific associations of blood and urinary manganese levels with glucose levels, insulin resistance and kidney function in US adults: National health and nutrition examination survey 2011-2016. Chemosphere, 2020. 258: p. 126940.