The endocrine glands
The main endocrine glands of the body and their hormones:
Figure to be added
| Gland | Hormone | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Pituitary | Growth hormone, ADH, and hormones that control other glands | Controls growth and water balance; the master gland |
| Thyroid | Thyroxine | Controls the rate of metabolism; needs iodine |
| Adrenal | Adrenaline | Prepares the body for an emergency |
| Pancreas (islets of Langerhans) | Insulin and glucagon | Control blood glucose |
| Ovaries | Oestrogen and progesterone | Female sex characteristics; the menstrual cycle |
| Testes | Testosterone | Male sex characteristics |
Goitre
Too little iodine in the diet means too little thyroxine, and the thyroid swells. Iodised salt prevents it.