Question

which of the following hormones is responsible for regulating carbohydrate metabolism in the body?
a cortisol
b aldosterone
c epinephrine
d thyroxine

Explanation:

• Cortisol: Increases blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (production of glucose from non - carbohydrate sources like amino acids) and inhibiting glucose uptake in some tissues (except the brain), thus regulating carbohydrate metabolism.
• Aldosterone: Mainly regulates electrolyte (sodium and potassium) balance and fluid volume in the body, not carbohydrate metabolism.
• Epinephrine: Involved in the "fight - or - flight" response. It increases blood glucose levels in the short - term stress response (by promoting glycogenolysis), but its primary role is more related to the acute stress response rather than the regular regulation of carbohydrate metabolism like cortisol.
• Thyroxine ($T_4$): Mainly regulates the basal metabolic rate (influences the rate of oxygen consumption and energy production in cells), growth, and development. While it has an impact on metabolism in general, its role is not as specifically focused on carbohydrate metabolism regulation as cortisol.

Answer:

A. cortisol