What hormone lowers blood glucose and helps cells absorb glucose?

The hormone that lowers blood glucose and aids in the absorption of glucose by cells is insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. When you consume food, particularly carbohydrates, glucose levels in the bloodstream increase. In response, the pancreas releases insulin, which facilitates the uptake of glucose by body cells, allowing them to use it for energy or store it for future use. This action effectively lowers the glucose concentration in the blood.

For context, glucagon, produced by the pancreas as well, counteracts insulin by raising blood glucose levels when they drop too low. Cortisol, often associated with stress, also raises blood glucose as part of its role in metabolism. Adrenaline (or epinephrine) can increase blood sugar levels in response to stress or physical activity, ensuring that the body has sufficient energy to respond to such situations. However, insulin's primary function is to decrease blood glucose levels, making it the correct answer regarding the regulation of glucose absorption by cells.