The Endocrine System
What Does The Endocrine System Do? Although we rarely think about the endocrine system, it influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. The endocrine system is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, tissue function, metabolism, and sexual function and reproductive processes.
What glands are in included in the Endocrine System?
Pituitary Gland: is situated below the brain, and is no larger in size than a pea. This gland secretes a great variety of hormones, such as: the growth hormone that regulates body growth (weight and height). The pituitary gland also secretes many other hormones that regulates the secretion of other endocrine glands, therefore is called the chief commander of the endocrine system. Pituitary Gland
Thyroid glands: are situated at the sides of the trachea and is shaped like a butterfly. The thyroid secretes thyroxine, which plays a very important role in the regulation of growth and metabolism.trachea
Adrenal glands: are situated above the kidneys, and secrete adrenaline. Adrenaline promotes the conversion of glycogen to glucose, increases blood sugar level, heart rate, and blood pressure, relaxes muscular blood vessels, inhibits the stomach and intestinal action, and regulates stress response.kidneysblood pressure
Pancreas: secrete insulin and glucagons. Insulin helps cell use blood sugars, or converts blood sugars into glycogen to be stored in the liver, therefore lowering blood sugar levels.
Sexual Glands: are different in men and women: males have testes, and females have ovaries. The testes secrete androgens that promote sperm growth and maturity, therefore influencing the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair growth, prominent Adam’s apple and deepening voice. The ovaries secrete estrogens that promote ova growth and maturity, therefore influencing the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as wider hips, menstrual cycles and breast development.testesovariesspermmenstrual cycles