What is one effect of GH on the body's metabolism?

Growth hormone (GH) significantly impacts the body's metabolism by stimulating the conversion of fatty acids for energy. This process, known as lipolysis, enhances the body's ability to utilize stored fat as a fuel source, particularly during periods of fasting or increased energy demand. By promoting the breakdown of triglycerides in adipose tissue, GH allows for the mobilization of fatty acids into the bloodstream, where they can be oxidized to meet energy needs, especially during physical exertion.

While other options mention metabolic processes, they do not accurately reflect the primary action of GH related to energy metabolism. For example, GH does not promote fat storage. Instead, it tends to encourage fat utilization. Similarly, GH does not directly increase glucose uptake in tissues; that role is typically associated with insulin. Lastly, while GH does play a role in promoting protein synthesis, it does not enhance protein breakdown exclusively; rather, it balances both synthesis and breakdown to support growth and metabolic demands. Thus, the stimulation of fatty acid conversion into energy illustrates GH's pivotal role in facilitating energy metabolism.