How does cortisol primarily affect the body?

Cortisol plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress. It is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex and is often referred to as the "stress hormone." When an individual encounters a stressful situation, the hypothalamus signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol, which helps prepare the body to respond effectively. This includes increasing glucose availability for energy, modulating the immune response, and influencing various metabolic processes to manage stress.

Promoting the stress response is the primary function of cortisol, as it helps maintain homeostasis during challenging times by supporting physical responses like the fight-or-flight mechanism. This involves elevating blood sugar levels, enhancing metabolic functions, and helping the body cope with immediate threats.

In contrast, while cortisol does influence other aspects of metabolism and health, such as glucose production and fat metabolism, its primary role remains centered on the stress response. This makes it integral to handling acute stressors, which is why the answer revolves around its function in promoting the body's stress response.