Which hormone is primarily responsible for regulating blood glucose levels during exercise?

The hormone primarily responsible for regulating blood glucose levels during exercise is insulin. During physical activity, the body requires more glucose for energy, and insulin plays a crucial role in facilitating the uptake of glucose into the cells, particularly muscle cells, allowing them to utilize glucose effectively during exercise. This process helps maintain optimal blood glucose levels, preventing hyperglycemia and ensuring that energy is available for muscle performance.

Insulin also works in coordination with other hormones like glucagon and adrenaline, which help mobilize glucose from the liver when blood sugar levels drop. However, insulin is key in regulating the entry of glucose into cells during the activity itself, making it essential for energy metabolism in muscles during exercise.

The other hormones mentioned have roles in blood glucose regulation but are not the primary regulators during exercise. For instance, glucagon increases blood glucose levels in response to lower glucose availability, adrenaline enhances glucose release for quick energy, and cortisol can assist in gluconeogenesis. However, insulin's unique role in facilitating glucose uptake stands out during the heightened metabolic demands of exercise.