Endocrine System

The endocrine system includes the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, thymus, adrenal glands, and other body organs. This network of glands and organs produces/releases hormones into the bloodstream, which travel to tissues/organs throughout the body to regulate growth, development, metabolism, reproduction, and respond to stress, injury, and mood. It controls blood-sugar levels (insulin produced by the pancreas) and regulates salt-water ratios. The adrenal cortex produces glucocorticoids (cortisol) to control blood-sugar and respond to stress.