Which hormone is primarily responsible for the regulation of blood sugar levels?

Insulin is the primary hormone responsible for the regulation of blood sugar levels. It is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates by promoting the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells. This lowers blood sugar levels, ensuring that they remain within a healthy range, which is essential for normal physiological functions.

When glucose enters the bloodstream after the consumption of carbohydrates, insulin is released in response to this increase in blood sugar levels. It facilitates the storage of glucose in the liver and muscles as glycogen for later use and helps to convert excess glucose into fat. If insulin levels are inadequate, as in the case of diabetes, blood sugar levels can rise dangerously high, leading to various health complications.

Other hormones listed may influence energy metabolism and stress responses, but they do not primarily regulate blood sugar levels in the way that insulin does. For example, adrenaline and cortisol can increase blood sugar levels by promoting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, especially during stress, but they do not have the same direct regulatory function on sugar levels as insulin. Thyroxine, while involved in regulating metabolism, does not play a direct role in glucose regulation.