Glycolysis

Glycolysis is a metabolic process in which a molecule of glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate. This process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and is the first stage of the respiratory cycle, which is necessary for the production of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Stages of Glycolysis

Glycolysis consists of ten sequential reactions catalyzed by specific enzymes.

The process of glycolysis can be divided into two main stages:

1. ATP Consumption Phase. In this stage, glucose is phosphorylated and converted to fructose-1,6-bisphosphate, which requires ATP expenditure.
2. Energy Production Phase. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate is cleaved into two three-carbon molecules, resulting in the production of ATP and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH).

Glycolysis and Ketogenic Diet

When blood glucose levels drop, the activity of glycolysis decreases. In response, the body enhances gluconeogenesis (the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and ketogenesis (the production of ketone bodies from fatty acids).

Advantages and Disadvantages of Glycolysis

Although glycolysis is an efficient way to quickly generate energy, it is also associated with the production of pyruvate and lactate, which can lead to an acidic imbalance in the body. By reducing glycolysis, a ketogenic diet may help reduce this risk.

On the other hand, prolonged reduction of glycolysis can lead to decreased endurance and overall energy efficiency during high-intensity physical activities, as ketone bodies cannot be utilized as quickly as glucose.

Therefore, athletes following a ketogenic diet may require an adaptation period.