Which hormone is released in response to stress?

Which hormone is released in response to stress?

• A. Adrenaline
• B. Insulin
• C. Thyroxine
• D. Cortisol

Answer: (D)

When the body experiences stress, it triggers a hormonal cascade that coordinates a sustained response. The hypothalamus signals the pituitary to release ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol. Cortisol increases glucose availability by promoting gluconeogenesis, mobilizes fats for energy, and helps modulate the immune response and inflammation, supporting longer-term adaptation to stress. This makes cortisol the best answer because it specifically embodies the prolonged, systemic adjustments the body makes during ongoing stress. Adrenaline is released quickly from the adrenal medulla for a rapid fight-or-flight response, while thyroid hormone and insulin have other primary roles and are not the primary stress signal in this context.

When the body experiences stress, it triggers a hormonal cascade that coordinates a sustained response. The hypothalamus signals the pituitary to release ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol. Cortisol increases glucose availability by promoting gluconeogenesis, mobilizes fats for energy, and helps modulate the immune response and inflammation, supporting longer-term adaptation to stress. This makes cortisol the best answer because it specifically embodies the prolonged, systemic adjustments the body makes during ongoing stress. Adrenaline is released quickly from the adrenal medulla for a rapid fight-or-flight response, while thyroid hormone and insulin have other primary roles and are not the primary stress signal in this context.