In what form do animals bodies store extra glucose?
Animals store excess glucose in the form of glycogen. Glycogen is a complex polysaccharide that is made up of multiple glucose molecules. Think of glycogen as a long chain of glucose units. When the body needs glucose for energy, glycogen can be broken down and released into the bloodstream. This process helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and ensures the body has a readily available source of energy. This energy storage mechanism is particularly important for short-term, intense activities such as sprinting or weightlifting. Glycogen is mainly stored in the liver and skeletal muscles, with the liver acting as the primary storage site.