What hormone promotes storage of glucose by the liver?
Glucose, a vital energy source for the body, is stored in the liver in the form of glycogen. This process, known as glycogenesis, is regulated by a specific hormone that plays a crucial role in maintaining blood sugar levels and ensuring the body has a steady supply of energy. This hormone is none other than insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.
Insulin is a key player in the regulation of glucose metabolism. When blood sugar levels rise, such as after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin then binds to insulin receptors on the surface of liver cells, triggering a series of events that lead to the storage of glucose as glycogen. This process not only helps to lower blood sugar levels but also ensures that the liver can release glucose back into the bloodstream when needed, such as during periods of fasting or exercise.
In this article, we will delve into the mechanisms by which insulin promotes glycogenesis in the liver, the importance of this process for overall health, and the potential consequences of insulin resistance, a condition that can disrupt this delicate balance.
