Less intuitive, and more interesting, is the role of a second hormone, cortisol, commonly referred to as the “stress hormone.” Cortisol is secreted from the adrenal cortex in response to physical stressors, such as running to catch the train, and psychological stressors, such as fretting about taking an exam. Its primary function is to mobilize energy by increasing blood sugar and helping to metabolize fat, protein, and carbohydrates.
