What role does cortisol play in the body?

• A. Regulates sleep cycles
• B. Inhibits the immune response
• C. Regulates metabolism and response to stress
• D. Promotes digestion

Answer: (C)

Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and it plays a significant role in regulating metabolism and the body's response to stress. Often referred to as the “stress hormone,” cortisol helps prepare the body to respond to stressful situations by increasing blood sugar levels through gluconeogenesis, which provides the necessary energy to manage stress. In addition to its role in stress response, cortisol also influences how the body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it crucial for maintaining overall metabolic homeostasis.

While cortisol does have various effects on other systems, such as mildly inhibiting the immune response, its primary functions are more directly related to metabolism and stress management. It does not regulate sleep cycles or promote digestion to any significant degree, which further emphasizes its core roles in metabolic regulation and the stress response.