Which hormone helps regulate metabolism and stress response?

Cortisol is the hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and the body's stress response. It is produced by the adrenal glands during times of stress and is often referred to as the "stress hormone." When you’re faced with stress, whether physical or emotional, cortisol prepares your body to respond by increasing glucose in the bloodstream, enhancing your brain's use of glucose, and suppressing non-essential functions like digestion and immune responses. This helps the body to manage energy effectively during stressful situations.

In addition to its role in response to stress, cortisol influences metabolism by regulating how the body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it essential for maintaining proper energy levels throughout the day. This hormone also helps in regulating blood pressure and controlling the sleep-wake cycle, further highlighting its pivotal role in overall metabolic health.

While other hormones listed have various important functions in the body—such as thyroid-stimulating hormone in regulating the thyroid and metabolism, growth hormone in tissue growth, and prolactin in regulating milk production—none specifically have the dual role of managing both metabolism and the stress response like cortisol does. Therefore, cortisol is the best answer to the question asked.