Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Glucagon and Glycogen?

Guilherme Mazui

•2 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Glucagon and Glycogen?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Glucagon and glycogen are not the same, but they are related to how your body uses its main source of energy, glucose. Here are the key differences between them:

  • Glycogen is a stored form of glucose (sugar) that your body primarily stores in your liver and muscles. When your body needs energy, glycogen is converted back into glucose and released into your bloodstream.
  • Glucagon is a hormone that your pancreas produces to help regulate your blood glucose (sugar) levels. It works by triggering liver glycogen to convert back into glucose and enter your bloodstream so that your body can use it for energy. Glucagon is also a counterpart to insulin, another hormone that decreases blood sugar levels.

In summary, glycogen is the stored form of energy that your body uses, while glucagon is the hormone that induces your body to convert glycogen back into glucose to be used for energy.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Glucagon and Glycogen?
  • Comparative Table: Glucagon vs Glycogen

    • Comparative Table: Glucagon vs Glycogen

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between glucagon and glycogen:

    Feature Glucagon Glycogen
    Definition Hormone Stored form of energy
    Origin Produced by the pancreas Stored in the liver and muscles
    Function Increases blood sugar levels by converting glycogen into glucose Provides energy for the body
    Existence Naturally occurring hormone in the body or given as an injection or nasal powder Synthesized from excess glucose in the bloodstream
    RELATED BASIC QUESTIONS Does vitamin C lower blood sugar? What percent of blood sugar is glucose? Does honey lower blood sugar? Does alcohol raise blood sugar levels?

    In summary, glucagon is a hormone that increases blood sugar levels by converting glycogen into glucose, while glycogen is a stored form of energy that provides fuel for the body.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.