Absorptive state

Definition

The absorptive state is a metabolic period that occurs when the body digests food and absorbs nutrients, primarily lasting for about four hours after a meal. During this phase, energy from ingested nutrients is used immediately or stored for future use.

Related terms

Glycogenesis: The process of converting glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver and muscle cells.

Lipogenesis: The metabolic pathway that synthesizes fatty acids from acetyl-CoA primarily occurring during the absorptive state.

Insulin: A hormone produced by the pancreas that promotes the uptake of glucose by cells and plays a crucial role in maintaining blood sugar levels during the absorptive state