Fitness Glossary G

Glucagon A hormone responsible for the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Glucose The basic fuel of the body, the simplest sugar molecule and main sugar found in the blood stream.

Gluteals Abbreviation for gluteus maximus, medius and minimus; the buttock muscles.

Glycemic Index (GI) A measuring system to find the extent of which various foods raise the blood sugar level. The benchmark is white bread, which has a GI of 100. The higher the score, the greater the extents of blood sugar raise. E.g. Dextrose scores 138 (HIGH) whereas fructose 31 (LOW).

Glycogen The principle form of carbohydrate energy (glucose) stored within the bodies muscles and liver.

Growth Hormone A naturally released anabolic hormone by the pituitary gland. It promotes muscle growth and the breakdown of body fat for energy, unfortunately it is greatly reduced after the age of about 20.