What is one of the functions of cortisol in the body?

Cortisol plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress and is part of the body's fight-or-flight response. One of its primary functions is to increase blood glucose levels, which provides essential energy for cells, especially during times of stress or when the body needs to respond to perceived threats. Cortisol achieves this through several mechanisms, including stimulating gluconeogenesis, the process by which the liver produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources.

This increase in blood glucose is vital as it supplies the necessary energy for various functions, including muscle activity and brain function, during stressful situations. Therefore, the ability of cortisol to raise blood glucose levels is key to sustaining the body's energy needs and maintaining homeostasis during times of acute stress.

In contrast, cortisol does not stimulate growth and development; rather, it can have the opposite effect if levels are chronically high. While it also inhibits insulin production and can have effects on the immune response, its primary and most immediate role in stress situations is to mobilize energy reserves by increasing blood glucose levels.