What hormone is essential for normal growth?

Growth hormone is essential for normal growth because it stimulates growth and cell reproduction in humans and other animals. Produced by the pituitary gland, this hormone plays a pivotal role in physical development, particularly during childhood and adolescence. It promotes the growth of bones and cartilage, directly influencing an individual's height and overall body structure. Additionally, growth hormone helps regulate metabolism, which is crucial for the proper functioning of various bodily systems.

The other hormones listed have important roles but are not primarily responsible for growth. Prolactin is mainly involved in lactation and reproductive functions, luteinizing hormone is key for regulating the reproductive system especially in ovulation and testosterone production, and follicle-stimulating hormone is crucial for the development of eggs in females and sperm in males. While these hormones contribute to overall health and development, they do not have the direct role in stimulating growth that growth hormone does.