What hormone regulates blood glucose levels?

Study for the WJEC Biology Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, hints and explanations included. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Insulin is the hormone primarily responsible for regulating blood glucose levels in the body. It is produced by the beta cells in the pancreas and plays a crucial role in lowering blood glucose by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. When blood sugar levels rise after a meal, insulin is secreted to help convert glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver and muscle cells, thus reducing blood sugar levels back to a normal range.

This regulation is critical for maintaining energy homeostasis. If insulin is not functioning properly or if its production is insufficient, it can lead to conditions such as diabetes mellitus, where blood glucose levels remain abnormally high.

While glucagon, produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas, also plays a role in glucose regulation by raising blood glucose levels when they are low, it works in opposition to insulin. Adrenaline and cortisol are hormones involved in the body’s response to stress and also influence blood sugar levels, but they do not have the primary function of regulating glucose as insulin does.

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