Table 1 defines the metabolic processes that serve to regulate the production, metabolism, and storage of carbohydrates within the body.
Table 1. Metabolic Processes.| Term | Definition |
| Glycogenolysis | The breakdown or hydrolysis of glycogen in the liver (as well as kidneys, muscle, and brain) into glucose released into the bloodstream. |
| Glycolysis | The breakdown or metabolism of glucose to produce energy. |
| Glycogenesis | The conversion of excess glucose into glycogen as a cellular storage mechanism. |
| Gluconeogenesis | The reversal of glycogenolysis whereby glucose is synthesized within the body from non-carbohydrate substances, such as pyruvate, lactate, glycerol, and certain amino acids. |
Table 2 lists several hormones that are involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
Table 2. Main Hormones Affecting Carbohydrate Metabolism.| Hormone | Function | Affect on Blood Glucose |
| Insulin | Insulin is the main regulatory hormone produced and secreted by the pancreatic beta cells. It stimulates the uptake of glucose and the movement of glucose from the blood to cells for energy production. Insulin also stimulates glycogenesis, inhibits glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, and regulates protein synthesis. | ↓ |
| Glucagon | Glucagon is a hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas and stimulates glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, causing an increase in blood glucose. It has the opposite effect as that of insulin. | ↑
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| Cortisol | Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland and promotes gluconeogenesis. It is released in response to stress and low blood glucose levels. It functions to increase blood glucose through gluconeogenesis. | ↑
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| Epinephrine | Epinephrine is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and certain neurons. It serves as a neurotransmitter that increases glycogenolysis. | ↑
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