Which of the following is a natural steroid produced by the body?

Cortisol is indeed the natural steroid produced by the body, primarily by the adrenal cortex. It plays a crucial role in responding to stress, regulating metabolism, and maintaining homeostasis. Cortisol is often referred to as the "stress hormone" because its levels increase in response to stress, helping to prepare the body for a "fight or flight" response. This hormone also supports various bodily functions, including immune response and inflammation regulation.

In contrast, cortisone and hydrocortisone are synthetic or naturally occurring precursors to cortisol but are not the primary steroid hormone produced by the body. Prednisone is also a synthetic corticosteroid that mimics the effects of cortisol and is used therapeutically to treat various conditions, but it is not produced naturally in the body. Understanding the distinction between these substances is important for recognizing their physiological roles and clinical applications in respiratory therapy and other medical practices.