The adrenal glands are two small glands located on top of each kidney. They are part of the endocrine system and are responsible for producing and secreting hormones that are essential for regulating various bodily functions. The adrenal glands are composed of two parts: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal
Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. It plays a crucial role in the body’s “fight or flight” response to stress. When the body is under stress, such as during a physical threat, adrenaline
Containing elements of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins and have many functions in metabolism. The human body requires 20 different amino acids to build proteins. While some amino acids can be produced by the body, others must be obtained from the
Antibiotics, also called antibacterials, are a type of antimicrobial drug used in the treatment and prevention of bacterial infection. They may either kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. A limited number of antibiotics also possess antiprotozoal activity. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses such as the common cold or
Candida albicans is a type of fungus that is commonly found in the human body, particularly in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and female genital tract. Under normal circumstances, the presence of Candida albicans in the body does not cause any harm. However, when the balance of microorganisms in the body
Also known as the circulatory system, the cardiovascular system is an essential organ system that helps to transport blood, oxygen, nutrients, and hormones throughout the body. It is composed of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The cardiovascular system plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis in the body by
The central nervous system (CNS) is the part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing, integrating, and coordinating information received from the body’s sensory receptors and sending commands to the body’s muscles and organs to control and coordinate their activities.
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. It belongs to a class of hormones known as glucocorticoids, which are involved in the regulation of many physiological processes in the body, including metabolism, immune response, and stress response. Cortisol plays a
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are types of fats that the body cannot produce on its own and must obtain from the diet. There are two types of EFAs: omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and sardines), as
Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through your bloodstream and enter tissues, where they turn on switches to the genetic machinery that regulates everything from reproduction to emotions to your sense of well-being. The body’s system of hormone production is formally known as the endocrine system. Hormones can be thought
The hypothalamus is a small but important region located in the brain, specifically in the diencephalon. It plays a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, including hunger, thirst, body temperature, sleep, and other autonomic and endocrine functions. The hypothalamus is often referred to as the “master gland” because it
The first line of defense against disease-causing microorganisms is the skin and mucosal barriers. Behind this is a complex defensive system. Collectively these parts are known as the immune system. The immune system neutralizes or destroys microorganisms and the toxins created by them wherever they attack the body via the
Minerals are inorganic compounds that are essential nutrients for the human body. They are naturally occurring substances found in soil, water, and rocks, and are required by the body in small amounts to carry out various functions such as building strong bones, transmitting nerve impulses, maintaining healthy blood, and facilitating
The pituitary gland, also known as the hypophysis, is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, below the hypothalamus. It is often referred to as the “master gland” because it secretes hormones that regulate the functions of several other endocrine glands in the body. The pituitary
Probiotic bacteria are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host. These beneficial bacteria are typically found in the human gut, but they can also be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Probiotic bacteria work by colonizing the
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, which is a chemical messenger in the brain and nervous system that helps to regulate various physiological functions such as mood, appetite, sleep, and social behavior. It is also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) due to its chemical structure. Serotonin is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan
The amount and quality of sleep we get have a profound impact on our overall health. Unfortunately, we live in a day and age that isn’t particularly conducive to sleep. Busy schedules, digital devices, and other modern-day distractions have made it more difficult to make sleep a top priority. As
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. It is an important part of the endocrine system and produces hormones that help regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, growth, and development. The thyroid gland uses iodine from the food we eat to
Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for the proper functioning of the body. They are required in small amounts and cannot be synthesized by the body, so they must be obtained from the diet. There are 13 essential vitamins, each with its own unique function in the body. They