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The thyroid gland produces a hormone called "Thyroxine" which
Explanation
The thyroid gland produces thyroxine (T4), which is essential for regulating the body's basal metabolic rate. Thyroxine regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to ensure a balance for growth and energy expenditure [1]. It increases oxygen consumption and heat production (thermogenesis) across various tissues. While thyroid hormones influence many physiological processes, including growth, brain development, and indirectly affecting reproductive cycles, their primary and most direct function is the control of metabolic rate [1]. Specifically, thyroxine does not directly control blood glucose levels; rather, it stimulates metabolic pathways like gluconeogenesis and glucose oxidation without changing the overall blood glucose level. It also supports normal development and heart function, but its hallmark role remains the regulation of the speed at which the body uses energy [1].
Sources
- [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 6: Control and Coordination > Do You Know? > p. 110