Which hormone is released by adrenal glands in response to stress?

The hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress is cortisol. When a person is faced with stressful situations, the hypothalamus signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone." This hormone plays a crucial role in the body's fight-or-flight response by increasing glucose availability in the bloodstream, enhancing the brain's use of glucose, and curbing functions that would be non-essential or damaging in a fight-or-flight situation, such as digestion and immune response.

Cortisol helps prepare the body to react to stressful stimuli, making it essential for maintaining homeostasis during stressful events. It also aids in regulating metabolism, reducing inflammation, and managing the body's blood pressure. By understanding the function of cortisol, one gains insight into how the body physiologically responds to stress, highlighting its importance in both acute and chronic stress management.