Thymus – This gland is found in your chest, just behind the breastbone (sternum) and between your lungs.Pineal – Found at the base of the brain, this produces the hormone melatonin, which is involved in sleep regulation.Cortisol plays a role in metabolism: it promotes the conversion of proteins and fats into glucose. The adrenal glands make several hormones, including cortisol. Adrenal – There are two adrenal glands, one above each kidney.These hormones regulate the metabolism in the body and support the activity of the growth hormone, which cannot function without thyroxine. The thyroid releases thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid – located at the base of the neck.Pituitary – connected to the hypothalamus – this is known as a ‘master gland’ and is responsible for releasing and controlling a number of hormones.Glands and the hormones they release regulate many processes in the body from growth, puberty, metabolism and reproduction, hormones play a role in almost everything we do. The endocrine system is made up of a number of glands that secrete hormones. Many secondary growth disorders are caused by issues in the hormonal (endocrine) system.
