Final answer:
The body regulates blood glucose levels primarily through the hormones insulin and glucagon, which are released by the pancreas in response to high or low blood sugar levels, respectively. During the postabsorptive or fasting state, the body relies on stored glycogen for energy, further highlighting the essential nature of glucose regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of maintaining the blood glucose levels within a healthy range involves the secretion of various hormones, mainly insulin and glucagon. After a meal, your blood glucose levels rise, triggering the release of insulin by the beta cells in your pancreas. This hormone helps the body cells to uptake glucose from the blood, utilizing it for energy or storing it as glycogen in the liver for later use.
If the blood glucose level drops below the adequate range, alpha cells of the pancreas secrete another hormone called glucagon. Glucagon stimulates the breakdown of stored glycogen back into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream, raising the blood glucose levels back to the normal range. This constant regulation of blood glucose levels ensures the body has a stable supply of energy throughout periods of eating and fasting.
The postabsorptive state, also known as the fasting state, is when the body depends on stored glycogen for energy, due to the absence of new intake of food. This state, as well as the processes of glycogen synthesis and breakdown, play vital roles in the homeostatic regulation of blood glucose levels.
Learn more about Blood Glucose Regulation