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The process of converting dietary glucose into fatty acids and glycerol, primarily within the liver.

A condition where there is an abnormal increase in the levels of VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) in the blood.

A protein involved in lipid transport, synthesized from the same gene but with different lengths due to alternative RNA splicing. ApoB-48 is found mainly in chylomicrons, while ApoB-100 is found in VLDL and LDL.

A disorder in which the body cannot properly absorb fats, causing fatty stools (steatorrhea). It can be caused by various factors, including pancreatic insufficiency and bile salt deficiency.

The process of converting dietary fat into usable energy for the body. It involves the breakdown and absorption of fat in the digestive system.

A key enzyme in the digestion and absorption of fats. It works with bile salts to break down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol.

The hormone that stimulates the release of bile from the gallbladder. It is also involved in stimulating pancreatic enzyme release for fat digestion.

The process of converting chylomicrons into mature chylomicrons by the addition of apolipoproteins, primarily within the lymphatic system.

A condition where the liver is unable to produce sufficient amounts of bile salts. Bile salts are crucial for lipid digestion and absorption.

A hormone produced by the gut that stimulates pancreatic bicarbonate secretion. It plays a role in neutralizing stomach acidity for optimal lipid digestion.

Pyruvate is a key intermediate in glucose metabolism, serving as a link between glycolysis and the citric acid cycle. It can be formed from the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and can be used to generate ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. Furthermore, pyruvate can be converted into glucose via gluconeogenesis, which happens during periods of fasting or starvation.

PEPCK (phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase) is a key enzyme in gluconeogenesis, the process of synthesizing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. It catalyzes the conversion of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate, an important step in generating glucose from precursors like alanine, glycerol, and even-chain fatty acids.

Following a high-carbohydrate meal, insulin levels rise to facilitate glucose uptake and utilization in cells. This is necessary to lower blood glucose levels.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), high ketone bodies, and an acidic blood pH. The symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dehydration, rapid breathing, and loss of consciousness.

Glucagon is a hormone that helps raise blood sugar levels by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver, promoting gluconeogenesis, and increasing lipolysis. Hyperglucagonemia, or high levels of glucagon in the blood, can lead to weight loss and increased breakdown of muscle and fat.

C-peptide is a fragment produced alongside insulin when the proinsulin molecule is cleaved. Measuring C-peptide helps determine if insulin is being made by the body. If C-peptide is absent or low, it indicates an issue with insulin production, potentially caused by autoimmune conditions, genetic defects, or pancreatic damage.

Marathon runners face a risk of hypoglycemia towards the end of the race due to prolonged physical activity and depletion of glucose stores. GLUT1 is responsible for basal glucose uptake, while GLUT4 is activated by insulin to enhance glucose uptake in response to exercise. The reduced blood glucose levels during the race lead to insufficient fuel for the brain, causing dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion.

A 3-day fast with water and vitamins should not be considered a 'cleansing' fast, as it focuses mainly on calorie restriction. This type of fasting triggers hormonal changes, decreasing insulin levels and increasing glucagon, leading to lipolysis and gluconeogenesis. While effective for weight loss and potential health benefits, relying on a fasting diet for 'cleansing' lacks scientific evidence.