Glucagon: The Body’s Rapid-Response Rescue Hormone
Glucagon is a vital hormone that plays a powerful role in helping the body maintain stable energy levels, especially when blood sugar drops too low. Produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas, it works as a natural counterbalance to insulin. While insulin lowers blood glucose by helping cells absorb sugar from the bloodstream, glucagon performs the opposite function—it releases stored glucose when the body needs an immediate boost. This delicate partnership keeps energy available for essential bodily functions, even during fasting or intense physical activity.
One of glucagon’s most remarkable actions is its ability to activate glycogenolysis, a process in which stored glycogen in the liver is converted back into glucose. This newly released glucose is then sent into the bloodstream, helping restore normal blood sugar levels quickly. This mechanism is especially important overnight or between meals when food intake is low. Glucagon…