Endocrine System

Function & Structure

The endocrine system regulates body functions through hormone production and secretion. Major glands include:

Primary Endocrine Glands

• Pituitary: Master gland controlling other hormones
• Thyroid: Metabolism and energy regulation
• Adrenals: Stress response and electrolyte balance
• Pancreas: Blood sugar control and digestion

Reproductive Glands

• Ovaries: Female hormone production and egg maturation
• Testes: Male hormone production and sperm development
• Placenta: Pregnancy hormone support (temporary)

Secondary Endocrine Tissues

• Hypothalamus: Hormone regulation and nervous system link
• Pineal gland: Circadian rhythm control
• Thymus: Immune system development
• Fat tissue: Leptin and other hormone production

Key Functions

Metabolic Regulation

• Blood glucose control through insulin and glucagon
• Metabolic rate regulation via thyroid hormones
• Fat storage and utilization signaling
• Appetite and satiety hormone balance

Stress Response

• Cortisol release for stress adaptation
• Adrenaline for fight-or-flight response
• Blood pressure and heart rate regulation
• Inflammatory response modulation

Growth and Development

• Growth hormone for tissue development
• Sex hormones for sexual maturation
• Bone growth and density regulation
• Muscle development and maintenance

Common Health Concerns

Thyroid Dysfunction

• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Autoimmune thyroid conditions
• Thyroid nodules and goiter

Blood Sugar Imbalances

• Insulin resistance and prediabetes
• Type 2 diabetes development
• Hypoglycemia and blood sugar fluctuations
• Metabolic syndrome

Hormone Imbalances

• Adrenal fatigue and cortisol dysregulation
• Sex hormone imbalances (estrogen, testosterone)
• Growth hormone deficiency
• Sleep hormone disruption (melatonin)

Supplement Support

Thyroid Support

• Iodine for thyroid hormone production
• Selenium for thyroid enzyme function
• L-tyrosine for hormone synthesis
• Ashwagandha for thyroid regulation

Blood Sugar Management

• Chromium for glucose metabolism
• Alpha-lipoic acid for insulin sensitivity
• Cinnamon extract for glucose control
• Berberine for metabolic support

Stress Hormone Balance

• Phosphatidylserine for cortisol regulation
• Rhodiola for stress adaptation
• Holy basil for stress response
• Magnesium for nervous system support

Lifestyle Factors

Hormone Health Habits

• Regular sleep schedule for hormone production
• Stress management for cortisol balance
• Regular exercise for hormone sensitivity
• Avoiding endocrine disruptors in environment
• Maintaining healthy body composition

Dietary Considerations

• Stable blood sugar through balanced meals
• Healthy fats for hormone production
• Adequate protein for amino acid building blocks
• Fiber for hormone metabolism and elimination
• Limiting processed foods and excess sugar