Final answer:
Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood glucose levels, helping to absorb glucose into cells for conversion to glycogen or fats, and inhibiting excess glucose production by the liver.
Step-by-step explanation:
Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels. After you eat, insulin facilitates the absorption of glucose into the liver, fat, and muscle cells, where it is converted into glycogen or fats. It also inhibits the liver from producing more glucose. When insulin levels are low, such as in diabetes, these processes do not occur effectively, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. In contrast, other options like amylase help in digesting carbohydrates, hemoglobin carries oxygen in the blood, and melanin provides pigment to the skin. Insulin's primary function is to maintain blood sugar levels within a normal range, which is crucial for the body's overall energy management.