Glucagon is released to stop blood glucose levels from becoming too low (hypoglycemia), the pancreas will release glucagon which can stimulate the liver to release glucose, giving our cells an important source of energy. Glucose and insulin are two hormones, released from the pancreas, that work together to keep our blood glucose levels in a safe range.
Glucagon can also be released by the pancreas when the body needs additional or extra glucose, for example during vigorous or intense exercise.
The action of glucagon includes to:
Stimulate the liver to break down glycogen (the stored form of glucose) which can be released into the bloodstream as glucose
Activate gluconeogenesis, which is the process of converting amino acids into glucose, which can also be used for energy. This process occurs when glucose stores become low
Decrease fatty acid synthesis by breaking down stored fat from adipose tissue and the liver into free fatty acids, which can also be used as energy by the body's cells when required.