ENDOCRINE BASICS
WHAT IS IT?
The Endocrine System is a series of glands which make and secrete hormones that the body uses.
These hormones control many functions, such as:
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respiration
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metabolism
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reproduction
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sensory perception
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movement
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sexual development
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growth
GLANDS/ORGANS
The Endocrine System involves several different glands and organs to help the body function.
These glands include:
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hypothalamus
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pituitary gland
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parathyroids
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pancreas
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thyroid
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adrenal gland
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pineal gland
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ovaries
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testes
When any of the endocrine glands produce the wrong amount of hormones, diseases can develop that affect our daily lives.
GLAND FUNCTIONS
Hypothalamus: responsible for body temperature, hunger, mood, the releases of hormones from other glands, as well as thirst, sleep, and sex drive
Pituitary gland: controls other glands and creates the hormones which trigger growth
Parathyroids: controls the amount of calcium in the body
Pancreas: produces insulin to help control blood sugar levels
Thyroid: produces hormones associated with calorie burning and heart rate
Adrenal gland: produce hormones that controls ex drive and cortisol, the stress hormone
Pineal gland: produces melatonin, which affects sleep
Ovaries: only found in women, ovaries secrete estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone
Testes: only found in men, testes produce sperm and testosterone

So, what does my thyroid do?
Your thyroid is very important! It is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. It has a right lobe and left lobe, with a bridge in-between called an isthmus. Your thyroid produces hormones that act throughout your body, affecting metabolism, growth, development, and body temperature.