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What is the Endocrine System?
The endocrine system is regulated by various glands and organs that secretes hormones, which are chemicals that are released directly into the blood stream to accelerate or slow down certain physiologic processes (Timby & Smith, 2013).
The endocrine system plays a vital role in regulating homeostatic processes during periods of environmental changes and stress such as:
*Metabolism
*Growth
*Fluid and electrolyte balance
*Reproductive processes
*Sleep and wake cycles
The endocrine system serves as a chemical
communication and coordination system that enables reproduction, growth and development, and regulation of energy
Many glands are involved in the endocrine system, producing numerous hormones that are important to the management of the body's metabolic processes. Amongst the most common glands are the pituitary glands, thyroid, parathyroid, thymus, pineal gland, adrenal medulla, adrenal cortex, and pancreas (Timby & Smith, 2013). See Table 49-1 on page 749 of your textbook for more information on the endocrine glands and hormones they produce.