What key hormone is produced by the pancreas?

The pancreas plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels in the body by producing several hormones, the most significant of which is insulin. Insulin is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, primarily by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. When blood sugar levels rise, such as after eating, insulin is released to help lower glucose levels by promoting its uptake and storage as glycogen in the liver and muscle tissues.

Understanding the function of insulin highlights its importance in maintaining homeostasis. A deficiency in insulin production can lead to conditions such as diabetes mellitus, where the body cannot properly manage blood glucose levels, leading to various health complications. This underlines the significance of insulin compared to other hormones listed, which do not primarily serve this function in glucose metabolism.