Gluconeogenesis is a metabolic process that generates glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, primarily in the liver and kidneys. This process is crucial for maintaining blood sugar levels, especially during fasting or intense exercise when carbohydrate stores are low. It converts substrates like lactate, glycerol, and certain amino acids into glucose, ensuring the body has a steady supply of energy. The process involves several enzymatic reactions that essentially reverse the steps of glycolysis, the pathway that breaks down glucose for energy. Key enzymes, such as pyruvate carboxylase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, play vital roles in regulating gluconeogenesis, allowing the body to adapt to varying energy demands.