What hormone does the thyroid gland produce to regulate metabolism?

The hormone produced by the thyroid gland to regulate metabolism is thyroxine, also known as T4. This hormone plays a crucial role in controlling the body's metabolic rate, influencing how efficiently the body utilizes energy from food. By regulating the metabolism, thyroxine impacts a wide range of physiological functions, including heart rate, temperature regulation, and the overall growth and development of tissues.

Thyroxine works by promoting the production of proteins and the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, which is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and optimal energy levels. It is particularly important during periods of growth and in response to various physiological demands, as it helps to ensure that the body can meet its energy requirements.

In contrast, insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels, cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps manage metabolism during stress, and adrenaline, also produced by the adrenal glands, primarily prepares the body for 'fight or flight' response. None of these hormones have the specific role of directly regulating metabolism in the same fundamental way that thyroxine does.