Responses of liver to acute and chronic physical activity

This chapter considers the physiological and pathological responses of liver to acute and chronic physical activity. The text spans the population spectrum from very sedentary individuals to elite endurance athletes, assessing the level of physical activity that promotes optimal hepatic function, and examining possible dangers of excessive physical activity. In the interests of simplicity, the reader is referred to a recent review for details of the complex biochemical and molecular processes underlying these responses. The resulting rise of blood glucose contributes to an increase in the rate of glucose oxidation during physical activity. It also causes a temporary suppression of appetite, an important tactic for the clinician who includes regular exercise as a component of any weight-loss programme. There remain several competing hypotheses as to what triggers the hepatic responses to an acute bout of exercise, and further research elucidating the underlying mechanisms might enable investigators to design exercise programmes that would enhance adaptations favourable to performance and hepatic health.