Final answer:
Glucose consumption prior to or during exercise increases glycogen stores, providing essential energy for muscle activity and enhancing performance. During exercise, glycogen is broken down to glucose to fuel muscles, a process aided by the hormone glucagon in response to lowered blood glucose levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is likely to occur with glucose consumption prior to or during exercise? The correct answer is b) Glucose consumption provides energy during exercise due to increased glycogen stores. When glucose is consumed, particularly in the form of carbohydrates, it is used for biochemical energy. Excess glucose can be stored as glycogen in liver and muscle tissues. During exercise, the body's demand for energy increases, and the stored glycogen is broken down into glucose to meet this demand, supplying the muscles with the necessary energy. This is why many distance runners engage in carb loading before a race, as the excess carbohydrates are converted to glycogen and stored in the muscles, providing a readily available energy source.
It is also worth noting that this process involves hormonal regulation. When blood glucose levels drop, glucagon is released, which in turn stimulates the conversion of glycogen back into glucose to maintain blood glucose levels during prolonged exercise.
Therefore, glucose consumption is integral to maintaining energy levels during exercise, enhancing performance, and preventing hypoglycemia. It does not lead to weight gain, dehydration, or have no impact on performance if consumed appropriately in relation to the activity.