Corticosteroid hormones released during stress have which of the following effects?

Corticosteroid hormones, particularly cortisol, are key players in the body’s response to stress. When the body perceives a stressor, these hormones are released to help manage energy availability and mobilize resources. One of the primary effects of corticosteroid hormones is the stimulation of gluconeogenesis, which is the process where glucose is synthesized from non-carbohydrate sources in the liver. This results in an increase in blood glucose levels, providing the body with immediate energy to respond to the stressor.

This response is critical for survival, as it ensures that the body has enough energy to handle both physical and psychological stressors. The release of glucose for energy helps maintain critical functions and powers muscles and organs during stressful situations. The adaptation to stress through glucose mobilization is an essential aspect of the fight-or-flight response.

Other options may introduce concepts related to blood volume, protein production, and the immune response, but the key role of corticosteroids during stress is their ability to increase glucose availability for immediate energy. This highlights the importance of these hormones in managing the body’s response to stress efficiently.