The endocrine system is composed of a multitude of glands that are responsible for hormone production and secretion. These endocrine gland hormones work together to keep the body functioning at optimal levels. Some of these hormones include human growth hormones, oxytocin, and thyroid stimulating hormone. Additional endocrine gland hormones include insulin, adrenalin, and reproductive hormones such as estrogen and testosterone.
Human growth hormones are endocrine gland hormones that are produced by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the skull. This type of hormone is responsible for healthy growth and development of all of the cells, tissues, and organs of the body. The human growth hormone also helps to control blood sugar levels and promotes a healthy immune system.
Oxytocin is also among the endocrine gland hormones that are secreted from the pituitary gland. This is the hormone responsible for causing the uterus to contract during childbirth and also stimulates contractions in the breasts to allow for breastfeeding. Some studies have indicated that oxytocin may be at least partially responsible for sexual arousal in women. Although this hormone is produced by both males and females, it seems to play a larger role in the female body.
Thyroid stimulating hormone, also referred to as TSH, is yet another of the endocrine gland hormones secreted by the pituitary gland, known as the master gland. The role of this hormone is to stimulate the thyroid gland into producing an additional hormone known as thyroxine. Abnormalities in the production of TSH may cause the thyroid gland to produce too much or too little thyroxine, resulting in a host of medical issues, including weight fluctuation and fatigue.
Insulin is a type of hormone produced by a gland known as the Islet of Langerhans, located in the pancreas. This hormone helps to control blood sugar levels in the blood and promotes the storage of fat within the fat cells of the body. A decrease in the body's production of insulin may result in a common medical condition known as diabetes.
Adrenalin is produced by the adrenal glands and is a key component of the body's natural fight-or-flight response to stress. This hormone increases the heart rate and gives a person a temporary burst of energy and physical strength. Estrogen and testosterone are endocrine gland hormones that are responsible for the proper development and function of the reproductive system. Health issues such as infertility may arise if these hormone levels are out of balance.
