Question

What will be the level of insulin and glucagon in a person fasting for 24hrs?

• A. High levels of insulin and glucagon
• B. Low levels of insulin and glucagon
• C. High levels of glucagon, low levels of insulin
• D. Low levels of glucagon, high levels of insulin

Answer 1

The correct option is C

High levels of glucagon, low levels of insulin

The level of insulin will be low and glucagon level will be high in a person fasting for 24 hrs. After eating a meal containing carbohydrates, glucose levels rise in the blood. Insulin secreted by the β cells of the pancreatic islets promotes removal of excess glucose from the blood. It converts glucose into glycogen in the liver and muscles. Blood glucose levels fall during periods of fasting and then glucagon is secreted by the α cells of the pancreatic islets. They convert the glycogen stored in the liver to glucose to maintain the level of glucose in the blood.