Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What role do hormones serve in the body?

1. They provide structural support

2. They act as chemical messengers

3. They store energy

4. They deliver nutrients

The correct answer is: They act as chemical messengers

Hormones serve as chemical messengers in the body, playing a crucial role in coordinating various physiological processes. They are secreted directly into the bloodstream by glands and travel to target organs or cells, where they regulate functions such as metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, and mood. This signaling allows for communication between different parts of the body, ensuring that responses to internal and external stimuli are appropriately managed. This communication is vital for maintaining homeostasis, where the body strives for a stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment. While the other choices mention roles that are important in the body, they do not pertain to the function of hormones. Structural support is primarily provided by proteins, such as collagen. Energy storage is a function mainly attributed to fats and carbohydrates, while the delivery of nutrients is typically carried out by the circulatory system, not hormones directly. Hence, the role of hormones as chemical messengers is fundamental to many bodily functions, making this the correct option.