What effect does cortisol influence in the body?

Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and low blood sugar levels. One of the significant effects of cortisol is its role in enhancing metabolism. It does this by promoting gluconeogenesis, the process through which the liver produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, thereby increasing blood sugar levels and providing energy to the body. Moreover, cortisol helps to mobilize fat and protein stores for energy, particularly during prolonged periods of stress or fasting.

In contrast, cortisol does not primarily function to lower heart rate, regulate sleep patterns, or build muscle mass. While it can have some influence on these areas, the direct and more notable effect of cortisol is its enhancement of metabolic processes, particularly in how the body responds to stress and ensures energy availability. This makes option B the most accurate choice regarding the influence of cortisol in the body.