Gluconeogenesis

Definition

Process of producing glucose from non-carbohydrate substrates (amino acids, lactate, glycerol) during fasting or intense effort.

How it works

Gluconeogenesis is a metabolic pathway that generates new glucose from precursors other than glucose, mainly amino acids (especially alanine), lactate, and glycerol. It mainly occurs in the liver and kidneys when blood glucose levels drop, during prolonged fasting or intense exercise. This pathway is stimulated by glucagon and cortisol, and suppressed by insulin. Gluconeogenesis is vital to maintaining stable blood sugar levels and providing energy to the brain between meals.

Role

Maintains blood sugar levels between meals by synthesizing new glucose.

Examples

• Production of glucose during fasting
• Synthesis from muscle amino acids
• Lactic acid glucogenesis after exercise
• Usage of glycerol from fats

Recommendations

Include proteins at each meal to provide amino acids for gluconeogenesis. Regular exercise improves the efficiency of this process. Avoid excessive prolonged fasting to preserve muscle mass.

Key takeaway

Gluconeogenesis maintains blood sugar levels by creating glucose during fasting.

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