Gluconeogenesis

Definition

Gluconeogenesis is a metabolic process where the body produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, helping to maintain blood sugar levels during fasting or low-carb diets.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Gluconeogenesis is a biochemical pathway that occurs primarily in the liver and to a lesser extent in the kidney cortex. It involves the production of glucose from three-carbon compounds like lactate, glycerol, and amino acids, crucial for supplying energy, especially during prolonged fasting, strenuous exercise, or carbohydrate-restricted conditions.

Benefits

• Maintains blood glucose levels during fasting.
• Provides energy when carbohydrate intake is low.
• Supports brain function by supplying glucose in the absence of dietary carbohydrates.

Examples

• The conversion of lactate from muscle activity back into glucose during intense physical exercise.
• Producing glucose from amino acids when dietary carbohydrates are insufficient.

Additional Information

• Effects: This metabolic process is crucial for energy homeostasis and helps prevent hypoglycemia, particularly during fasting states or low carbohydrate intake.

Related Terms

• Glycolysis
• Glycogenolysis
• Ketogenesis
• Metabolic Adaptation
• Insulin

References

• Biochemistry of Gluconeogenesis
• The Role of Gluconeogenesis in Metabolic Health