Hormones are substances produced by a gland or organ and present in the bloodstream meant to have a specific effect on another area or function of the body. In essence, hormones regulate the functions of organs and body systems.
The Pituitary Gland:
The Pituitary Gland is a small gland about the size of a pea. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain and regulates other endocrine glands throughout the body. Both Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and growth hormone are produced by the pituitary gland. Thyroid stimulating hormone controls thyroid function.
Pineal Gland:
The Pineal gland, also called the third eye, is located at the center of the brain. This gland secretes melatonin based on the amount of light that enters the eyes. Melatonin is secreted at different levels throughout the day. One function of this is to regulate the sleep and wake cycle. Melatonin also affects the immune system, normal sleep schedules and stress regulation. When melatonin is low, sleep problems often result.
The Thyroid Gland:
The thyroid is a large endocrine gland. The thyroid is located at the base of the neck and its function is to regulate the body’s metabolism. In some cases, an inability to lose weight can be caused by an under-active thyroid.
The Adrenal Glands:
Adrenals are small glands located above each kidney. There are two parts to the adrenal gland, the cortex and the medulla. The adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones. These hormones regulate the water and electrolyte balance and glucose metabolism in the body. The steroid hormones produced in the cortex include cortisol, DHEA, androstenedione and aldosterone.
The medulla is the smaller portion of the adrenal glands. The medulla produces adrenaline and noradrenaline. These substances help to regulate various functions of the body, including blood pressure, heart rate and glucose metabolism.
The Pancreas:
The pancreas is an organ of the digestive and endocrine systems that is located in the abdomen behind the stomach. The pancreas performs several essential functions. It produces insulin, somatostatin and glucagon and secretes enzymes that work to break down nutrients in the small intestine, which is essential for digestion.
Ovaries:
The ovaries are endocrine glands that are located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries secrete estrogen and progesterone, as well as a small amount of testosterone. Estradiol is the most potent estrogen steroid and regulates the reproductive organs and development of breasts. Progesterone stimulates changes in the lining of the uterus to support implantation of the embryo.
Testes:
The testes, or gonads, are endocrine glands that secrete testosterone in men and the adrenal glands synthesize testosterone in both genders, but significantly less in women. Testosterone is a steroid hormone that is synthesized from androstenedione, which is an adrenal steroid that is produced by androgens that originate in the testes and adrenal glands.