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Multiple Choice
Which hormone is primarily responsible for lowering blood glucose levels after a meal?
A
Adrenaline
B
Cortisol
C
Glucagon
D
Insulin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of insulin: Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. Its primary function is to lower blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells and promoting its storage as glycogen in the liver and muscles.
Review the role of other hormones listed: Adrenaline and cortisol are stress hormones that generally increase blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogen breakdown and gluconeogenesis. Glucagon, produced by alpha cells of the pancreas, raises blood glucose levels by promoting glycogen breakdown and glucose release from the liver.
Identify the physiological context: After a meal, blood glucose levels rise due to the absorption of glucose from the digestive system. The body needs a mechanism to lower these levels to maintain homeostasis.
Connect the function of insulin to the scenario: Insulin is released in response to elevated blood glucose levels after a meal. It signals cells to take up glucose and store it, effectively lowering the glucose concentration in the bloodstream.
Conclude why insulin is the correct answer: Based on its role in glucose regulation, insulin is the hormone primarily responsible for lowering blood glucose levels after a meal, unlike the other hormones listed, which either increase or maintain glucose levels.