What are the three primary functions of pancreatic hormones?

The three primary functions of pancreatic hormones focus on essential metabolic processes related to blood sugar regulation and energy management. The pancreas produces key hormones such as insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin, which play crucial roles in maintaining glucose homeostasis.

The process begins with insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and stimulating the storage of excess glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscle. Glucagon, on the other hand, works to raise blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to break down glycogen into glucose, releasing it back into the bloodstream.

Furthermore, pancreatic hormones also play a role in lipid metabolism, as insulin is involved in promoting fat storage and synthesis, while glucagon helps mobilize fatty acids from adipose tissue when energy is needed.

By focusing on the regulation of blood sugar levels and influencing fat metabolism, this choice effectively encapsulates the primary roles of pancreatic hormones. The inclusion of "breakdown of fat" recognizes the importance of these hormones in managing energy substrates beyond glucose alone, thus highlighting their holistic role in metabolism.