Which hormone regulates the metabolism of glucose?

Insulin is a key hormone in glucose metabolism, playing a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. It is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and facilitates the uptake of glucose into cells, especially muscle and fat cells, where it can be utilized for energy or stored as glycogen. In addition to promoting glucose uptake, insulin also inhibits gluconeogenesis, the process of generating glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, thereby lowering blood glucose levels after meals.

The action of insulin is vital for maintaining homeostasis in the body, ensuring that glucose is available for energy production when needed, while also preventing excessive levels of glucose in the bloodstream, which can lead to conditions such as diabetes. Its regulatory functions are essential for overall metabolic health and energy balance. Other hormones, such as glucagon, cortisol, and adrenaline, do play roles in carbohydrate metabolism, but they mainly act in opposition to insulin, particularly during times of fasting or stress.