What is a key characteristic of growth hormone regarding glucose metabolism?

A key characteristic of growth hormone is that it increases blood glucose levels. Growth hormone promotes gluconeogenesis, which is the process by which glucose is synthesized from non-carbohydrate sources in the liver. It also reduces the uptake of glucose by tissues, particularly muscle and fat cells, which contributes to an overall increase in blood glucose concentrations. This is a critical aspect of how growth hormone supports metabolic functions, as it helps to ensure that there is sufficient energy available for growth and maintenance of tissues, especially during periods of stress or increased metabolic demand.

The role of growth hormone in glucose metabolism is part of its broader function in the body, which also includes promoting lipid mobilization and changing protein metabolism, all of which are vital, especially during growth phases in youth or during recovery from illness or injury.