Endocrine System

Parathyroid Gland

Regulates calcium levels and have no effect on metabolism.

Pituitary Gland

A pea-sized structure located at the base of the brain, just below the hypothalamus, to which it is attached via nerve fibers. It is part of the endocrine system and produces critical hormones, which are chemical substances that control various bodily functions.

Thyroid Gland

Made up of glands that produce, store, and release hormones into the bloodstream so the hormones can reach the body's cells. The thyroid gland uses iodine from the foods you eat to make two main hormones, Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine

Andrenal Gland

The adrenal glands, located at the top of each kidney, produce hormones that help the body control blood sugar, burn protein and fat, react to stressors like a major illness or injury, and regulate blood pressure. Two of the most important adrenal hormones are cortisol and aldosterone.

Thymus

The thymus serves a vital role in the training and development of T-lymphocytes or T cells, an extremely important type of white blood cell.

Pancreas

Enzymes, or digestive juices, produced by the pancreas are secreted into the small intestine to further break down food after it has left the stomach. The gland also produces the hormone insulin and secretes it into the bloodstream in order to regulate the body's glucose or sugar level.

Pineal Gland

Located deep in the center of the brain, the pineal gland was once known as the "third eye." The pineal gland produces melatonin, which helps maintain circadian rhythm and regulate reproductive hormones.

Hypothalamus

Part of the nervous system, recognized as a major endocrine organ because it produces several hormones.

Testes

In addition to their role in the male reproductive system, the testes also have the distinction of being an endocrine gland because they secrete testosterone—a hormone that is vital to the normal development of male physical characteristics. The testes are twin oval-shaped organs about the size of a large grape.