Carbohydrates consumed through foods are converted into glucose, a crucial energy source for the body. In the prandial state, high blood glucose levels stimulate the secretion of insulin from the pancreas. Insulin inhibits hepatic glucose production and stimulates glucose uptake and metabolism by muscle and adipose tissue. The excess glucose is converted into glycogen and stored in the liver and muscles.

During fasting, when blood glucose levels are low, the pancreas secretes glucagon. it stimulates glucose production via gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis in the liver. These hormones, insulin, and glucagon, work in a reciprocal manner to regulate blood glucose. So, when glucagon levels go up, the body counteracts by releasing insulin.

During exercise, catecholamines stimulate hepatic glucose production, inhibit insulin secretion, and enhance glucagon release.

In summary, the regulation of glucose levels through the actions of insulin, glucagon, and other hormones ensures that the body can efficiently utilize and store energy as needed. This intricate balance between energy intake, storage, and utilization is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

From Chapter 25:

article

Now Playing

25.1 : Glucose Homeostasis: Regulation of Blood Glucose

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

1.0K Views

article

25.2 : Glucose Homeostasis: Pancreatic Islets and Insulin Secretion

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

785 Views

article

25.3 : Insulin: The Receptor and Signaling Pathways

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

843 Views

article

25.4 : Pathophysiology of Diabetes

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

643 Views

article

25.5 : Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

420 Views

article

25.6 : Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

170 Views

article

25.7 : Insulin: Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Preparation

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

208 Views

article

25.8 : Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

101 Views

article

25.9 : Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

92 Views

article

25.10 : Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Sulfonylureas

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

95 Views

article

25.11 : Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

103 Views

article

25.12 : Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

85 Views

article

25.13 : Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

82 Views

article

25.14 : Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

139 Views

article

25.15 : Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors

Insulin and Hypoglycemic Drugs

86 Views

See More

JoVE Logo

Privacy

Terms of Use

Policies

Research

Education

ABOUT JoVE

Copyright © 2025 MyJoVE Corporation. All rights reserved