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If a person is fasting for 24 hours and ingests no carbohydrates, what process does the liver primarily use to meet the body's glucose needs?

Converting glycogen into glucose.

The liver primarily meets the body's glucose needs during a 24-hour fast by converting glycogen into glucose. Glycogen is the stored form of glucose, primarily found in the liver and muscles. When fasting, the body must maintain blood glucose levels to provide energy for vital functions, especially for the brain and red blood cells, which rely heavily on glucose.

Glycogenolysis is the process whereby the liver breaks down glycogen into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. This process is crucial during fasting because the body does not have immediate access to dietary carbohydrates.

The other processes mentioned are not primarily involved in meeting immediate glucose needs during fasting. Breaking down red blood cells is related to the recycling of cells and hemoglobin, which does not directly provide glucose. Emulsifying fat refers to the digestion and absorption of dietary fats, which isn't a function needed during fasting when no food is being consumed. Producing more bile involves the processing of lipids and is not related to glucose metabolism. Therefore, converting glycogen into glucose is the most relevant process in this scenario.

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Breaking down red blood cells.

Emulsifying fat.

Producing more bile.

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