Hormones are chemicals in the body that cause changes. The glands of the endocrine (EHN doh krin) system make and release hormones that perform many different functions in the body. We will focus on just a few of these glands and hormones in this lesson.

The pituitary gland produces several hormones that control other glands and organs. It regulates the body’s growth and development.

The thyroid gland produces a hormone that regulates the speed at which your body turns food into energy. It also helps regulate growth.

The adrenal glands produce adrenaline, a hormone that controls the body’s response to emergencies. They also play a role in digestion and help maintain a balance of salt and water in the body.

The pancreas produces insulin, which controls the ability of the body cells to use sugar for energy.

The ovaries and testes produce hormones that control sexual development. Females have ovaries, and males have testes.