Crossfit Trainer Practice Test Level 1

What role does insulin play in blood sugar control?

1. It increases blood sugar

2. It has no role in blood sugar

3. It is a storage hormone that reduces blood sugar

4. It decreases metabolism

The correct answer is: It is a storage hormone that reduces blood sugar

Insulin plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels in the body. It is a hormone produced by the pancreas that facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for future use. By promoting the storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscle tissues, insulin effectively reduces the concentration of glucose in the blood, which is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. This function of insulin is vital for energy balance and metabolic health. In the absence of insulin or when insulin action is impaired (as seen in conditions like diabetes), blood sugar levels can become elevated, leading to various health complications. Thus, the correct understanding of insulin as a storage hormone that reduces blood sugar emphasizes its central role in blood glucose regulation and overall metabolic processes. This highlights the importance of maintaining proper insulin function for effective energy management in the body.