The central nervous system is able to take in sensory information all around you, interpret that information, and potentially instruct the release of hormones to respond to that information. Certain parts of the brain also instruct the release of hormones in response to what’s going on inside the body.

Our central nervous systems are a big part of why our hormones make their way through the body, but hormones are actually a part of the endocrine system. The endocrine system runs throughout the body but travels in different ways than the central nervous system.

Only certain endocrine functions take place through the brain. As we explore these functions, you will see just how much the different systems of our body need to work together to keep us alive and healthy!

Which Endocrine Functions Take Place in the Brain?What Is the Endocrine System?What Does The Hypothalamus Do?What Does the Pituitary Gland Do?What Does the Pineal Gland Do?We Rely So Much On Our Brains and Endocrine Functions!

Which Endocrine Functions Take Place in the Brain?

What Is the Endocrine System?

What Does The Hypothalamus Do?

What Does the Pituitary Gland Do?

What Does the Pineal Gland Do?

We Rely So Much On Our Brains and Endocrine Functions!

The endocrine system is made up of glands throughout the body, including the brain. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and pineal gland are part of this system and are located in the brain. They carry out a variety of functions.

The endocrine system has an influence over a lot:

…and more.

All of these functions are the result of hormones being released from glands:

Example of the Endocrine System at Work

The adrenal glands sit on top of each kidney. This gland secretes a few different hormones, including aldosterone. When the body detects low blood pressure, the adrenal gland produces this hormone and sends it to work. Aldosterone regulates sodium, potassium, and water in the body, keeping levels balanced. When it does its job, blood pressure rises back to a healthy level and potassium levels are lowered to a healthy level.

We rarely have to worry about our aldosterone production unless too much of it is being released. The same idea applies to most hormones within the endocrine system. If we stay healthy and the endocrine system does its job, we will remain in good shape!

If you have done any reading or research on the hypothalamus, you know that it keeps the body in check. That’s because it is essentially the “command center” for the endocrine system! The hypothalamus is where the endocrine system and central nervous system meet.

Homeostasis and Fight-or-Flight Response

Most people know the hypothalamus for its control over homeostasis. Our bodies need to be balanced in order to function. Internal temperature, mood, hunger, and hydration all play into homeostasis. If something is off-balance, the hypothalamus must respond accordingly.

Another function of the hypothalamus is the fight-or-flight response. When the hypothalamus receives a signal from the amygdala that the body is in danger, it does two things. It releases a corticotropin-releasing hormone to the pituitary gland and sends a message to the adrenal glands to release other hormones. The hypothalamus may not release adrenaline straight from the brain, but its messaging leads to the release of adrenaline and the resulting side effects.

Production and Release of Hormones

Although the hypothalamus communicates with other glands to maintain homeostasis, it also produces its own hormones! The hypothalamus produces:

This is just a basic overview of what these hormones do. It is important to note that some hormones, like somatostatin, are released to produce other hormones. When hormones operate in this type of chain reaction, it is called a cascade.

When beta-endorphins are released, the body is able to reduce stress and pain. Releasing beta-endorphins also results in “reward effects.” A “runner’s high” occurs when endorphins are released into the body and the runner feels a sense of elation. This feeling doesn’t happen automatically when you run, because it takes time for the body to sense that it needs to release endorphins, produce and release the endorphins, and let them travel through the bloodstream.

Not a whole lot is known about the pineal gland, but we do know that it is the center for melatonin production. You probably know melatonin as a “sleep aid.” People often take melatonin supplements if they have trouble sleeping. In reality, we produce our own melatonin. No supplements needed!

Here’s what happens. Our bodies run on an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm responds to light to keep us awake or prepare us for sleep. How does it do that? Through the release of hormones.

Want to encourage your body to release melatonin? It’s easy. Just avoid looking directly into the light. Our eyes cannot distinguish the difference between sunlight and a phone screen. Put away screens. Opt for a paperback book and dim lighting. Your body will take care of the rest.

Related posts:What Part of the Brain Regulates Body Temperature?What Part of the Brain Processes Thirst?What Causes Anxiety in the Brain?What Part of the Brain Processes Emotion? (Pics + Chart)The Stress Response (General Adaptation Syndome)

Reference this article:Practical Psychology. (2022, April).What Endocrine Functions take place in the Brain?.Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/what-endocrine-functions-take-place-in-the-brain/.Practical Psychology. (2022, April). What Endocrine Functions take place in the Brain?. Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/what-endocrine-functions-take-place-in-the-brain/.Copy

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Practical Psychology. (2022, April).What Endocrine Functions take place in the Brain?.Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/what-endocrine-functions-take-place-in-the-brain/.Practical Psychology. (2022, April). What Endocrine Functions take place in the Brain?. Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/what-endocrine-functions-take-place-in-the-brain/.Copy

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