What is one of the products of the conversion of lactic acid in the liver?

The conversion of lactic acid in the liver primarily involves the process of gluconeogenesis, where lactic acid is transformed back into glucose. This process is particularly significant during periods of intense exercise, when lactic acid accumulates in the muscles due to anaerobic respiration. The liver, using the Cori cycle, takes up lactic acid from the bloodstream and converts it into glucose, which can then be released back into circulation to provide energy for the body, especially for tissues that can utilize glucose efficiently.

This metabolic pathway is crucial during recovery, as it helps to replenish glycogen stores, thereby restoring energy levels in muscles and the liver. The conversion of lactic acid to glucose serves as a vital overlap between anaerobic and aerobic metabolism, effectively utilizing the byproducts of anaerobic glycolysis. This illustrates the liver's role in maintaining energy balance in the body by recycling lactic acid in this way.