Which hormone regulates blood glucose concentration?

Insulin is the hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose concentration. It is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body, particularly muscle and adipose (fat) tissues. This process lowers blood glucose levels after meals when glucose is abundant from food consumption.

When glucose levels rise, insulin is secreted to help maintain a normal range, preventing hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). It also promotes the storage of excess glucose in the form of glycogen in the liver and fat in adipose tissues. Additionally, insulin suppresses the production of glucose by the liver, which further helps in keeping blood glucose levels stable.

The other hormones listed, such as adrenaline and glucagon, do influence blood glucose levels but serve different functions. Glucagon, for instance, acts to raise blood glucose levels by promoting the conversion of stored glycogen in the liver back into glucose when blood sugar is low. Cortisol, a stress hormone, can increase blood glucose levels but does so through different processes, such as inhibiting glucose uptake in non-essential tissues.