What is a physiological effect of cortisol?

Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is produced by the adrenal cortex and plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. One of the primary effects of cortisol is its ability to increase blood sugar levels. It does this by promoting gluconeogenesis, which is the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids and glycerol. This rise in blood sugar is particularly important during times of stress when the body needs more energy to respond to perceived threats.

In addition to its role in glucose metabolism, cortisol also acts to suppress the immune system. This immunosuppressive effect helps to prevent prolonged inflammatory responses that could be detrimental to the body. Under chronic stress, elevated cortisol levels can lead to inadvertent suppression of the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.

The other physiological effects listed, such as stimulating growth hormone production, decreasing muscle mass, or reducing blood pressure, do not accurately reflect the primary actions of cortisol. In fact, chronic exposure to high levels of cortisol can lead to muscle wasting, and cortisol's overall impact tends to be associated with elevated blood pressure rather than a reduction. Thus, the combined effect of increasing blood sugar levels and suppressing the immune system is a hallmark of