Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the Molecular Level 5th Edition

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1118918401
ISBN 13: 978-1-11891-840-1

Chapter 22 - Mammalian Fuel Metabolism: Integration and Regulation - Exercises - Page 800: 33

Answer

Before a marathon, eating a lot of glucose can cause blood sugar levels to spike quickly, which triggers the pancreas to release insulin to help cells absorb glucose. But, during a marathon, the body requires more glucose, which causes the glycogen stores in the muscles and liver to quickly deplete. Fatigue and decreased performance can result from the body having to rely on alternative fuel sources like fatty acids and protein when glycogen stores are exhausted. Moreover, excessive glucose consumption throughout the marathon may result in hypoglycemia brought on by insulin.

Work Step by Step

consuming excessive amounts of glucose before a marathon is not a good idea because it can quickly deplete glycogen stores, hamper fuel use, and produce hypoglycemia brought on by insulin. To allow for digestion and the synthesis of glycogen in the liver and muscles, runners should instead eat moderate amounts of carbs many hours prior running the marathon.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.