Adrenal glands are thumb-sized glands that sit on top of your kidney and produce over fifty hormones that drive almost every bodily function. These functions are essential to life. The function of the adrenal glands is to release specific hormones into the bloodstream, which then helps regulate your metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, as well as respond to stress.
The adrenal glands are made up of two parts; the cortex and medulla; both produce different hormones. The medulla produces stress hormones; including adrenaline, which can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
The cortex is the largest part of the adrenal glands and is divided into three zones. Each of the three zones is responsible for producing specific hormones; cortisol, aldosterone, and DHEA. The cortisol hormone controls the body’s use of carbs, fats, and proteins.
The cortisol hormone also suppresses inflammation. Aldosterone assists in regulating the
