Which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism?

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism within the body. It produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which influence the metabolic rate of almost every cell in the body. These hormones help control how fast the body uses energy, how efficiently it produces proteins, and how sensitive the body is to other hormones. By managing these processes, the thyroid gland ensures that the body's energy levels and metabolic functions are maintained at an optimal level.

In contrast, the adrenal gland is involved in the body's response to stress and regulates functions such as blood pressure and the metabolism of certain nutrients through the secretion of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," regulates various hormonal functions but does not directly regulate metabolism; instead, it controls the thyroid gland through the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The pancreas primarily regulates blood sugar levels by producing insulin and glucagon, thus playing a key role in carbohydrate metabolism but not in the general regulation of metabolism.