Skip to main content
Biomedical Basics

Metabolic adaptations in starvation and exercise

  • Created by Henry Stewart Talks
Published on August 31, 2026   4 min

A selection of talks on Cardiovascular & Metabolic

Please wait while the transcript is being prepared...
0:00
This talk introduces metabolic adaptations in starvation and exercise, focusing on the body's use of different energy stores and fuel sources. We will discuss the hormonal regulation underlying these shifts and how the body preserves vital tissues during caloric deprivation. The presentation will also explore the role of overlapping energy systems in exercise and how different types of training trigger specific metabolic adaptations that enhance performance and protect health. Metabolic adaptation allows humans to survive food deprivation and meet the energy demands of physical activity. During starvation or prolonged exercise, the body makes biochemical and physiological adjustments to supply energy to vital organs and tissues. Hormones, metabolites, and cellular processes govern these changes. In starvation, fuel switching sustains vital tissue function, while exercise requires rapid ATP regeneration. Understanding these processes reveals important insights into survival, performance, disease, and aging. The initial response to fasting or starvation uses readily available energy stores. Glycogen in the liver is mobilized to maintain blood glucose, but is depleted within about 24 hours. Once exhausted, the body shifts to lapolsis. Triglycerides in adipose tissue are broken down into free fatty acids and glycerol. Fatty acids become the main energy source, while the liver converts them to ketone bodies, sparing muscle protein.

Quiz available with full talk access. Request Free Trial or Login.

Show
Hide

Metabolic adaptations in starvation and exercise

Embed in course/own notes