The Liver's Role in Blood Sugar Regulation

The vagus nerve triggers the liver to enhance gluconeogenesis, a process where sugar is produced from scratch, particularly during fasting. The liver also releases glycogen stores, contributing to blood sugar levels. While fasting, it's normal for blood sugar to rise, and the brain can signal the liver to increase gluconeogenesis, potentially elevating fasting blood sugar beyond the typical upper limit of 90 mg/dL. In cases of pre-diabetes or diabetes, this mechanism can raise blood sugar levels significantly higher, indicating the liver's critical role in glucose homeostasis and its impact on metabolic health.