What is the primary role of hormones secreted by the endocrine glands?

The primary role of hormones secreted by the endocrine glands is to regulate metabolic processes. Hormones are chemical messengers that are released into the bloodstream, and they travel to various tissues and organs in the body to elicit a wide range of physiological responses. These processes include the regulation of growth, metabolism, reproductive activities, and the body's response to stress, among others.

For example, insulin, produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels, while thyroid hormones are vital for controlling the metabolic rate. Hormonal regulation ensures that the body's systems maintain homeostasis, adapting to changes in the internal and external environment.

The other options, while important, do not represent the central function of the endocrine system. Facilitating digestion primarily involves the digestive system rather than hormonal actions alone. Assisting in nutrient absorption is largely a function of the gastrointestinal tract and its interactions with certain hormones, but it is not the primary role of all hormones. Similarly, while the endocrine system can indirectly influence waste elimination through hormone regulation of kidney function, this is not its primary purpose.