Glucagon

Glucagon is a hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas and plays a key role in regulating blood glucose levels.

Its primary function is to increase blood glucose levels, which is opposite to the action of insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels.

When blood glucose levels drop, glucagon stimulates the process of glycogenolysis, in which glycogen stored in the liver is converted back into glucose and released into the bloodstream.

Glucagon also stimulates gluconeogenesis – the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids.

Glucagon and the Ketogenic Diet

In the context of the ketogenic diet, glucagon plays an important role in maintaining ketosis. With low carbohydrate intake, insulin levels decrease, leading to increased secretion of glucagon. This stimulates the breakdown of fats and the formation of ketone bodies, which are then used as energy.

The influence of glucagon on metabolism in the context of the ketogenic diet includes:

• Stimulation of fat breakdown in adipose tissues and increased levels of free fatty acids in the blood.
• Promotion of ketogenesis in the liver, resulting in increased production of ketone bodies.
• Maintenance of normal blood glucose levels, which is important for the functioning of the brain and other organs that require glucose.

For individuals following a ketogenic diet, understanding the role of glucagon in maintaining ketosis and controlling blood glucose levels is important. Proper nutrition rich in healthy fats and low in carbohydrates helps optimize glucagon production, which contributes to maintaining ketosis and may lead to weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and other positive effects associated with the ketogenic diet.

However, it is important to consider that excessive elevation of glucagon levels in the absence of adequate carbohydrate intake may lead to excessive breakdown of protein structures in the body for glucose production, which is undesirable.