What hormone is produced by the thyroid gland and is crucial for metabolism?

The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that play a vital role in regulating metabolic processes in the body. Among these hormones, thyroxine, also known as T4, is the principal hormone produced by the thyroid. It is essential for the regulation of metabolism as it influences how the body uses energy, affecting processes such as heart rate, body temperature, and overall energy expenditure.

Thyroxine is converted in the body to its more active form, triiodothyronine (T3), which has an even more pronounced effect on metabolic activities. This hormone's influence extends to promoting the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it key for maintaining energy levels and overall metabolic health.

The other hormones listed, while important in their respective roles, do not directly relate to metabolism as thyroxine does. For instance, adrenaline primarily affects the body's response to stress, insulin regulates blood sugar levels, and corticosteroids are involved in inflammatory responses and stress management. Thus, thyroxine stands out as the crucial hormone for metabolism produced by the thyroid gland.