NANP Board Practice Exam

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Prepare for the NANP Board Exam. Study with detailed questions and explanations on key topics. Enhance your understanding and boost your confidence for the exam.

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What is cortisol's role in carbohydrate metabolism?

It is a principal glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex
It suppresses blood glucose levels
It binds to cellular sharp receptors
It is a neurotransmitter produced in the liver

The correct answer is: It is a principal glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex

Cortisol's role in carbohydrate metabolism is primarily characterized by being a principal glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex. As a glucocorticoid, cortisol plays a crucial role in maintaining glucose homeostasis by promoting gluconeogenesis, which is the process of producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. This is especially important during periods of stress, fasting, or low carbohydrate intake, where maintaining adequate blood glucose levels is essential for the body's function. The other options do not adequately describe cortisol's role in carbohydrate metabolism. While cortisol does not suppress blood glucose levels (in fact, it helps to elevate them during times of need), it also is not a neurotransmitter nor does it bind to cellular sharp receptors, which are related to different biological functions. Understanding cortisol's production in the adrenal cortex helps clarify its essential role in carbohydrate metabolism and the body's response to stress.