Liver - How is it useful when the blood sugar is low? - Part 3

Quick energy release

The body gets most of its energy from food rich in carbohydrate, such as bread, pasta and potatoes. The carbohydrates are broken down in the liver into glucose, a type of sugar that provides energy. If the glucose isn't needed straight away, it's stored as glycogen.

Some glucose is stored in the muscles, but most is stored in the liver. The liver has an active role in controlling glucose levels in the blood through feedback mechanisms.

When the body needs energy fast - when you're running, for example - the glycogen is turned back to glucose and used by the body. At first the muscles use their supplies, but they quickly run out and it's then up to the liver to release more glucose into the bloodstream to fuel the muscles.

If the liver is damaged, it can affect your ability to store and release glycogen, causing fatigue, muscle wasting and weakness.