Which hormones are primarily involved in regulating body temperature?

• A. Insulin and glucagon
• B. Cortisol and epinephrine
• C. Thyroid hormones and epinephrine
• D. Testosterone and estrogen

Answer: (C)

Thyroid hormones and epinephrine play significant roles in regulating body temperature. Thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), are vital for maintaining metabolic rate, which directly influences heat production in the body. An increase in these hormones can lead to enhanced metabolic activity, thus generating more heat and raising body temperature.

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is released from the adrenal medulla during stress or physical exertion. It causes various physiological responses, including increased heart rate and enhanced metabolic rate, which contribute to thermogenesis—the production of heat. This hormone helps in the body’s fight-or-flight response, where increased body temperature can be advantageous.

The combination of these two hormones effectively helps in the physiological response to maintain a stable internal temperature, particularly in the face of environmental changes or physical activity. Therefore, this answer accurately identifies the hormones that primarily regulate body temperature.