Definition: Gluconeogenesis is the process by which glucose is made, primarily in the liver, from non-carbohydrate sources. The body is able to make glucose from amino acids (protein), glycerol (the backbone of triglycerides, the primary fat storage molecule), and glucose metabolism intermediaries like lactate and pyruvate.
Source:
Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids (Macronutrients) (2005), Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board, National Academy of Sciences.
Pronunciation: gloo koh nee oh GEN e sis
Common Misspellings: gluconegenesis
Examples: At night, when we haven't eaten for several hours, the body begins to manufacture glucose using gluconeogenesis.
