Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which of the following characterizes the normal hormonal response during acute physical activity?

1. Decreased insulin and increased glucagon and epinephrine

2. Increased insulin, glucagon, and epinephrine

3. Decreased insulin, glucagon, and epinephrine

4. Increased insulin, glucagon, and cortisol

The correct answer is: Decreased insulin and increased glucagon and epinephrine

The hormonal response during acute physical activity is characterized by a decrease in insulin levels along with increases in glucagon and epinephrine. During exercise, the body requires immediate sources of energy, which primarily come from glucose and fatty acids. Insulin, a hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells, decreases because the body needs to ensure that glucose remains available in the bloodstream for immediate energy use. Simultaneously, glucagon is released from the pancreas, which promotes the release of glucose from the liver through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, helping to raise blood sugar levels. Additionally, epinephrine (adrenaline) is released from the adrenal glands, further enhancing glucose availability by stimulating glycogen breakdown and promoting lipolysis (fat breakdown), providing the necessary energy for increased physical demands during exercise. In summary, the normal physiological response during acute physical activity optimizes energy availability; therefore, decreased insulin along with increased glucagon and epinephrine is crucial for meeting the body’s heightened metabolic requirements. Other options listed either show commensurate increases in insulin with other hormones, which do not accurately reflect the physiological needs during exercise, or indicate incorrect combinations of hormone responses.