Ever wonder how your body works internally? Though the systems of the body can't necessarily speak to neighboring parts, the body communicates and sends messages all over. This is through the use of hormones and the endocrine system. From childhood to adulthood, the endocrine system helps regulate the biological functions and development of the nervous system, reproductive system, and circulatory system. The endocrine system takes on a pretty hefty job, being considered one of the most critical parts of the body.
The major factor of the endocrine system are hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers, typically produced by the endocrine glands, that circulate through the bloodstream and reach different parts of the body. After the hormones reach their targeted destination, they start a chain reaction to see if the hormone will fit the cell. Once it fits, the hormone can start action by locking with the receptor and sending messages throughout the body.
When it comes to the communication aspect of hormones and the endocrine system, the body adjusts to two forms. The first type is between the pituitary gland and the thyroid. The pituitary gland and thyroid are key glands of the endocrine system, located in the brain and neck area, respectively. During hormonal communication, the pituitary gland releases special hormones that trigger the thyroid to work together in various parts of the body. The second form of communication is the endocrine gland itself and any organ that needs development, or an increase in production. These forms of communication provide the bodily systems with their own individual "assignments". In general terms, the major impacts of hormonal communication results in growth/development, mood fluctuations, metabolism rates, and reproductive health.
Overall, the endocrine system and hormonal messengers in our bodies help articulate and regulate our body parts in order to function properly. It is important to understand the effects, as it is essential to maintaining our overall health and well being. Though the endocrine system is quite complex, just doing a little research can help expand one's knowledge of how our bodies work.
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