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Our behavior is not solely a product of our brain and nervous system. The endocrine glands serve as a great communication system of the body. The Endocrine System is comprised of glands that pour chemicals directly into the blood stream or lymph system. These chemicals called hormones are carried throughout the body where they affect both internal and visible behavior. Similar to other chemicals, hormones activate cells (receptors), in the body. Hormones can affect everything from puberty to personality, gigantism to jet lag.
The Pineal Gland, located in the brain, helps regulate body rhythms and sleep cycles.
The Pituitary Gland – also located in the brain –influences growth and lactation and also regulates the activity of other glands.
The Thyroid Gland, located in the lower neck, regulates the rate of metabolism in the body.
The Adrenal Glands are located at the top of our kidneys and secrete hormones that arouse the body, help with adjustment to stress, regulate salt balance and affect sexual function. The Adrenal Glands also supply small amounts of testosterone.
The Pancreas, located near our kidneys, releases insulin to regulate blood sugar levels and hunger.
The Male Testes secrete testosterone, which influences male sexual function.
Female Ovaries secret estrogen which influences female sexual function.
In this brief discussion of the Endocrine System we have only considered a few of the most important glands, Nevertheless, this should help to give you a better appreciation of how completely behavior and personality are tied to the ebb and flow of hormones in our body.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
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