The Endocrine System

The endocrine system consists of glands (specialized organs) that produce hormones. A hormone is a chemical messenger that is released into the bloodstream. Hormones control many of your body’s activities.

Important Glands

1. Thyroid- Gland that produces thyroxin, a hormone that controls metabolism (the rate at which food is converted to energy in the cells).

2. Parathyroid- Four glands that control the amount of calcium & phosphorus in the body. When these glands are overactive, these two minerals leave the bones and enter the blood, causing muscle weakness.

Important Glands (cont.)

3. Adrenal- Two glands that control the body’s water balance, help in the digestive process, and secrete adrenaline (a hormone that prepares the body to react quickly during stress or in an emergency.

4. Pancreas- Gland that produces digestive enzymes and chemicals that control blood sugar levels. The pancreas releases insulin, an important hormone that regulates the blood sugar level.

Important Glands (cont.)5. Ovaries- Two female reproductive glands

that produce egg cells and estrogen (the hormone that controls secondary sex characteristics during puberty).

6. Testes- Two male reproductive glands that produce sperm cells and testosterone (the hormone that controls secondary sex characteristics during puberty).

Important Glands (cont.)7. Liver- Gland that produces and releases

bile (a liquid that helps in the digestion of fats); helps maintain blood sugar levels; and filters out poisonous wastes.

Two Ways To Care For Your Endocrine System

1. Have regular medical checkups. Your physician will check the progress of your growth and development.

2. Keep a list of questions to ask your physician. Teenagers typically have many concerns during puberty regarding their growth, development, and feelings (which may be affected by hormones).

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