Which hormone is produced in the pancreas and helps take sugar into the cells of the body?

Insulin is the hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. When you eat, your blood sugar levels rise, prompting the pancreas to release insulin. This hormone acts as a key that allows glucose, which is the sugar taken from the food you consume, to enter the cells of the body. Once inside the cells, glucose can be used for energy or stored for later use.

Insulin is vital for maintaining normal blood sugar levels; without it, or if the cells become resistant to it, glucose remains in the bloodstream, potentially leading to high blood sugar levels and conditions like diabetes. Thus, the function of insulin is a key element in energy metabolism and overall metabolic health.