What are hormones? Hormone Functions: Fine Instrument Tuners

- biologically active substances. Their production occurs in specialized cells of the endocrine glands.

Translated from the ancient Greek language, the word “hormones” means “to induce” or “excite”.It is this action that is their main function: being produced in some cells, these substances induce the cells of other organs to act, sending them signals.

That is, in the human body, hormones play the role of a kind of mechanism that triggers all vital processes that cannot exist separately.

Human hormones are produced throughout life. At the moment, science knows more than 100 substances produced by the endocrine glands, which are characterized by hormonal activity and which regulate metabolic processes.

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The term "hormone" itself was first used in the works of the English physiologists W. Bayliss and E. Starling in 1902, and the active study of the endocrine glands and hormones was initiated by the English physician T. Addison in 1855.

Another founder of endocrinology is the French physician K. Bernard, who studied the processes of internal secretion and the corresponding glands of the body - organs that secrete certain substances into the blood.

Subsequently, another French doctor, C. Brown-Séquard, made his contribution to this branch of science, linking the development of certain diseases with the insufficiency of the function of the endocrine glands and showing that extracts of the corresponding glands can be successfully used in the treatment of these diseases.

According to modern studies, it has been reliably established that insufficient or excessive synthesis of hormones negatively affects the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of metabolic processes in the body, and this, in turn, contributes to the development of almost all diseases of the endocrine glands.

How hormones work

External or internal stimuli of one kind or another act on the body's receptors and give rise to impulses in them, which first enter the central nervous system, and then the hypothalamus.

In this part of the brain, primary active substances of remote hormonal action are produced - the so-called releasing factors, which, in turn, are sent to the pituitary gland. Under the influence of releasing factors, either the production and release of tropic hormones of the pituitary gland is accelerated or slowed down.

At the next stage of the process, hormones are delivered through the circulatory system to various organs or tissues (the so-called "targets"). At the same time, each of the hormones has its own chemical formula, which determines which of the organs will become a target. It is worth noting that the target may be not one organ, but several.

They act on target organs through cells equipped with special receptors that can perceive only certain hormones. Their relationship is similar to a lock with a key, where the receptor cell, opened by the hormone key, acts as a lock.

Attaching to receptors, hormones penetrate into the internal organs, where, with the help of chemical action, they force them to perform certain functions, due to which, in fact, the final effect of the hormone is realized.

Having completed their task, hormones are either broken down in target cells or in the blood, or transported to the liver, where they are broken down, or finally eliminated from the body mainly in the urine (for example, adrenaline).

Regardless of the location, there is always a clear structural and spatial correspondence between the receptor and the hormone.

An increase or decrease in hormone production, as well as a decrease or increase in the sensitivity of hormonal receptors and a violation of hormonal transport leads to endocrine diseases.

The role of hormones in the human body

Hormones are of great biological importance, with their help, coordination and coordination of the work of all organs and systems is carried out:

• Thanks to these substances, each person has a certain height and weight.
• Hormones affect the emotional state of a person.
• Throughout life, hormones stimulate the natural process of cell growth and decay.
• They are involved in the formation of the immune system, stimulating or inhibiting it.
• Substances produced by the endocrine glands control metabolic processes in the body.
• Under the influence of hormones, the body tolerates physical activity and stressful situations more easily.
• With the assistance of biologically active substances, there is a preparation for a certain life stage, including puberty, childbirth and menopause.
• Certain substances control the reproductive cycle.
• The feeling of hunger and satiety a person also experiences under the influence of hormones.
• With the normal production of hormones and their function, sexual desire increases, and with a decrease in their concentration in the blood, libido decreases.
• Hormones maintain homeostasis.

The main properties and features of the action of hormones

1. High biological activity. Hormones regulate metabolism in very low concentrations - in the range from 10-8 to 10-12M.
2. Distance of action. Hormones are synthesized in the endocrine glands and have biological effects in other target tissues.
3. reversibility of action. It is provided with dosed release adequate to the situation and subsequent mechanisms of hormone inactivation. The time of action of hormones is different:

• peptide hormones: sec - min;
• protein hormones: min - hours;
• steroid hormones: hours;
• iodothyronines: day.

1. Specificity of biological action(each hormone has a specific effect on a specific organ or tissue through a specific receptor cell).
2. Pleiotropy(variety) of action. For example, catecholamines have been seen as short-term stress hormones. Then it was found that they are involved in the regulation of matrix syntheses and processes determined by the genome: memory, learning, growth, division, cell differentiation.
3. Dualism of regulations(duality). So, adrenaline both narrows and expands blood vessels. Iodothyronines in large doses increase protein catabolism, in small doses they stimulate anabolism.

Classification of hormones

Hormones are classified according to chemical structure, biological functions, place of education and mechanism of action.

Classification by chemical structure

According to the chemical structure, hormones are divided into the following groups:

1. Protein-peptide compounds. These hormones are responsible for the implementation of metabolic processes in the body. And the most important component for their production is protein. Peptides include insulin and glucagon produced by the pancreas and growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Their composition may include the most diverse number of amino acid residues - from 3 to 250 or more.
2. Derivatives of amino acids. These hormones are produced by several glands, including the adrenal glands and the thyroid gland. And the basis for their production is tyrosine. Representatives of this species are adrenaline, norepinephrine, melatonin, and thyroxine.
3. Steroids. These hormones are produced in the testicles and ovaries from cholesterol. These substances perform the most important functions that allow a person to develop and acquire the necessary physical form that adorns the body, as well as reproduce offspring. Steroids include progesterone, androgen, estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone.
4. arachidonic acid derivatives- eicosanoids (have a local effect on cells). These substances act on cells located near those organs that are involved in their production. These hormones include leukotrienes, thromboxanes, and prostaglandins.

Peptide (protein)

1. Corticotropin
2. Somatotropin
3. Thyrotropin
4. Prolactin
5. Lutropin
6. luteinizing hormone
7. Follicle-stimulating hormone
8. Melonocyte-stimulating hormone
9. Vasopressin
10. Oxytocin
11. Parathormone
12. Calcitonin
13. Insulin
14. Glucagon

Amino acid derivatives

1. Adrenalin
2. Norepinephrine
3. Triiodothyronine (T3)
4. Thyroxine (T4)

Steroids

1. Glucocorticoids
2. Mineralocorticoids
3. Androgens
4. Estrogens
5. Progestins
6. Calcitriol

The cells of some organs that are not related to the endocrine glands (cells of the gastrointestinal tract, cells of the kidneys, endothelium, etc.) also secrete hormone-like substances (eicosanoids) that act at the sites of their formation.

Classification of hormones according to biological functions

According to their biological functions, hormones can be divided into several groups:

Table. Classification of hormones according to biological functions.

This classification is conditional, since the same hormones can perform different functions. For example, adrenaline is involved in the regulation of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and, in addition, regulates blood pressure, heart rate, and smooth muscle contraction. Estrogens regulate not only reproductive function, but also affect lipid metabolism, induce the synthesis of blood coagulation factors.

Classification by place of education

According to the place of formation, hormones are divided into:

Classification by mechanism of action

According to the mechanism of action, hormones can be divided into 3 groups:

1. Hormones that do not enter the cell and interacting with membrane receptors (peptide, protein hormones, adrenaline). The signal is transmitted inside the cell with the help of intracellular messengers (second messengers). The main end effect is a change in the activity of enzymes;
2. hormones that enter the cell(steroid hormones, thyroid hormones). Their receptors are found inside cells. The main end effect is a change in the amount of enzyme proteins through gene expression;
3. membrane-acting hormones(insulin, thyroid hormones). The hormone is an allosteric effector of membrane transport systems. The binding of the hormone to the membrane receptor leads to a change in the conductivity of the ion channels of the membrane.

Adverse factors affecting the work of hormones

The main human hormones throughout life ensure the stability of the body. Under the influence of some factors, the stability of the process may be violated. Their approximate list is as follows:

• various diseases;
• stressful situations;
• changing climatic conditions;
• unfavorable ecological situation;
• age-related changes in the body. (In men, hormone production is more stable than in women. In the female body, the amount of hormones secreted varies depending on various factors, including the phase of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause.

The following signs indicate that a hormonal imbalance could have formed:

• general weakness of the body;
• cramps in the limbs;
• headache and ringing in the ears;
• sweating;
• impaired coordination of movements and slow reaction;
• memory impairment and lapses;
• sudden mood swings and depression;
• unreasonable decrease or increase in body weight;
• stretch marks on the skin;
• disruption of the digestive system;
• hair growth in places where they should not be;
• gigantism and nanism, as well as acromegaly;
• skin problems, including oily hair, acne and dandruff;
• menstrual irregularities.

How is hormone levels determined?

If any of these conditions manifests itself systematically, it is necessary to contact an endocrinologist. Only a doctor, based on the analysis, will be able to determine which hormones are produced in insufficient or excessive amounts, and prescribe the correct treatment.

How to achieve hormonal balance

With a slight hormonal imbalance, lifestyle adjustments are indicated:

Compliance with the daily routine. Full-fledged work of body systems is possible only when creating a balance between work and rest. For example, the production of somatotropin increases 1-3 hours after falling asleep. At the same time, it is recommended to go to bed no later than 23 hours, and the duration of sleep should be at least 7 hours.

Physical activity. Physical activity allows to stimulate the production of biologically active substances. Therefore, 2-3 times a week you need to do dancing, aerobics or increase activity in other ways.

Balanced diet with an increase in the amount of protein intake and a decrease in the amount of fat.

Compliance with the drinking regime. During the day, you need to drink 2-2.5 liters of water.

If more intensive treatment is required, the table of hormones is studied, and medications are used that contain their synthetic counterparts. However, only a specialist has the right to appoint them.

The human body is very complex. In addition to the main organs in the body, there are other equally important elements of the entire system. Hormones are one of these important elements. Since very often this or that disease is associated precisely with an increased or, conversely, underestimated level of hormones in the body.

Let's figure out what hormones are, how they work, what their chemical composition is, what are the main types of hormones, what effect they have on the body, what consequences can occur if they do not function properly, and how to get rid of pathologies that have arisen due to hormonal imbalance.

What are hormones

Human hormones are biologically active substances. What it is? These are chemicals that the human body contains, which have a very high activity with a small content. Where are they produced? They are formed and function inside the cells of the endocrine glands. These include:

• pituitary;
• hypothalamus;
• epiphysis;
• thyroid;
• parathyroid gland;
• thymus gland - thymus;
• pancreas;
• adrenal glands;
• sexual glands.

Some organs can also take part in the production of the hormone, such as: kidneys, liver, placenta in pregnant women, gastrointestinal tract and others. The hypothalamus, a small outgrowth of the main brain, coordinates the functioning of hormones (photo below).

Hormones are carried through the blood and regulate certain metabolic processes and the work of certain organs and systems. All hormones are special substances created by the cells of the body to affect other cells in the body.

The definition of "hormone" was used for the first time by W. Bayliss and E. Starling in their works in 1902 in England.

Causes and signs of hormone deficiency

Sometimes, due to the occurrence of various negative reasons, the stable and uninterrupted work of hormones can be disturbed. These unfortunate reasons include:

• transformations within a person due to age;
• diseases and infections;
• emotional interruptions;
• climate change;
• unfavorable environmental situation.

The male body is more stable in hormonal terms, unlike female individuals. Their hormonal background can periodically change both under the influence of the general causes listed above, and under the influence of processes that are unique to the female sex: menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and other factors.

The following signs indicate that a hormone imbalance has arisen in the body:

• weakness;
• convulsions;
• headache and ringing in the ears;
• sweating.

In this way, hormones in body a person is an important component and an integral part of his functioning. The consequences of hormonal imbalance are disappointing, and treatment is long and expensive.

The role of hormones in human life

All hormones are undoubtedly very important for the normal functioning of the human body. They affect many processes occurring inside the human individual. These substances are inside people from the moment of birth until death.

Due to their presence, all people on earth have their own, different from others, growth and weight indicators. These substances affect the emotional component of the human individual. Also, over a long period, they control the natural order of increase and decrease of cells in human bodies. They coordinate the formation of immunity, stimulating it or suppressing it. They also put pressure on the order of metabolic processes.

With their help, the human body is easier to cope with physical exertion and any stressful moments. So, for example, thanks to adrenaline, a person in a difficult and dangerous situation feels a surge of strength.

Also, hormones to a large extent affect the body of a pregnant woman. Thus, with the help of hormones, the body prepares for successful delivery and care of the newborn, in particular, the establishment of lactation.

The very moment of conception and in general the entire function of reproduction also depends on the action of hormones. With an adequate content of these substances in the blood, sexual desire appears, and with a low and missing to the required minimum, libido decreases.

Classification and types of hormones in the table

The table shows the internal classification of hormones.

The following table contains the main types of hormones.

The main properties of hormones

Whatever the classification of hormones and their functions, they all have common features. The main properties of hormones:

• biological activity despite low concentration;
• action distance. If the hormone is formed in some cells, then this does not mean at all that it regulates these particular cells;
• limited action. Each hormone plays its strictly assigned role.

The mechanism of action of hormones

Types of hormones have an impact on the mechanism of their action. But in general, this action lies in the fact that hormones, being transported through the blood, reach the cells that are targets, penetrate into them and transmit a carrier signal from the body. In the cell at this moment there are changes associated with the received signal. Each specific hormone has its own specific cells located in the organs and tissues to which they aspire.

Some types of hormones attach to receptors that are contained inside the cell, in most cases, in the cytoplasm. These species include those that have lipophilic properties of hormones and hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Due to their lipid solubility, they easily and quickly penetrate into the cell to the cytoplasm and interact with receptors. But in water, they are difficult to dissolve, and therefore they have to attach to carrier proteins to move through the blood.

Other hormones can dissolve in water, so there is no need for them to attach to carrier proteins.

These substances affect cells and bodies at the moment of connection with neurons located inside the cell nucleus, as well as in the cytoplasm and on the membrane plane.

For their work, an intermediary link is needed, which provides a response from the cell. They are presented:

• cyclic adenosine monophosphate;
• inositol triphosphate;
• calcium ions.

That is why the lack of calcium in the body has an adverse effect on the hormones in the human body.

After the hormone has transmitted a signal, it breaks down. It can split in the following places:

• in the cell to which he moved;
• in blood;
• in the liver.

Or it can be excreted from the body with urine.

The chemical composition of hormones

According to the constituent elements of chemistry, four main groups of hormones can be distinguished. Among them:

1. steroids (cortisol, aldosterone and others);
2. consisting of proteins (insulin and others);
3. formed from amino acid compounds (adrenaline and others);
4. peptide (glucagon, thyrocalcitonin).

Steroids, at the same time, can be distinguished into hormones by sex and adrenal hormones. And the sexes are classified into: estrogen - female and androgens - male. Estrogen contains 18 carbon atoms in one molecule. As an example, consider estradiol, which has the following chemical formula: C18H24O2. Based on the molecular structure, the main features can be distinguished:

• in the molecular content, the presence of two hydroxyl groups is noted;
• according to the chemical structure, estradiol can be determined both to the group of alcohols and to the group of phenols.

Androgens are distinguished by their specific structure due to the presence in their composition of such a hydrocarbon molecule as androstane. The variety of androgens is represented by the following types: testosterone, androstenedione and others.

Name given to chemistry testosterone - seventeen-hydroxy-four-androsten-trione, a dihydrotestosterone - seventeen-hydroxyandrostane-trione.

According to the composition of testosterone, it can be concluded that this hormone is an unsaturated ketoalcohol, and dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione are obviously products of its hydrogenation.

From the name of androstenediol, information follows that it can be classified as a group of polyhydric alcohols. Also from the name you can draw a conclusion about the degree of its saturation.

Being a sex-determining hormone, progesterone and its derivatives, in the same way as estrogens, is a female-specific hormone and belongs to the C21 steroids.

Studying the structure of the progesterone molecule, it becomes clear that this hormone belongs to the group of ketones and that its molecule contains as many as two carbonyl groups. In addition to the hormones responsible for the development of sexual characteristics, steroids include the following hormones: cortisol, corticosterone and aldosterone.

If we compare the formula structures of the types presented above, then we can conclude that they are very similar. The similarity lies in the composition of the nucleus, which contains 4 carbo-cycles: 3 with six atoms and 1 with five.

The next group of hormones are amino acid derivatives. Their composition includes: thyroxine, epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Peptide hormones are more complex than others in their composition. One such hormone is vasopressin.

Vasopressin is a hormone formed in the pituitary gland, the value of the relative molecular weight of which is equal to one thousand eighty-four. In addition, in its structure it contains nine amino acid residues.

Glucagon, located in the pancreas, is also one of the types of peptide hormones. Its relative mass exceeds the relative mass of vasopressin by more than two times. It is 3485 units due to the fact that in its structure there are 29 amino acid residues.

Glucagon contains twenty-eight groups of peptides.

The structure of glucagon in all vertebrates is almost the same. Due to this, various preparations containing this hormone are created medically from the pancreas of animals. Artificial synthesis of this hormone in laboratory conditions is also possible.

A greater content of amino acid elements include protein hormones. In them, amino acid units are connected into one or more chains. For example, the insulin molecule consists of two polypeptide chains, which include 51 amino acid units. The chains themselves are connected by disulfide bridges. Human insulin has a relative molecular weight of five thousand eight hundred and seven units. This hormone has homeopathic significance for the development of genetic engineering. That is why it is produced artificially in the laboratory or transformed from the body of animals. For these purposes, it was necessary to determine the chemical structure of insulin.

Somatotropin is also a type of protein hormone. Its relative molecular weight is twenty one thousand five hundred units. A peptide chain consists of one hundred and ninety-one amino acid elements and two bridges. To date, the chemical structure of this hormone in the human body, bull and sheep has been determined.

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It includes organs that produce hormones that are necessary for the normal functioning of the body. Each type of hormone is responsible for a certain, and their insufficient or excessive production affects the performance of all organs and tissues. It is necessary to consider in detail what hormones are and why a person needs them.

Concept and classification

What is a hormone? The scientific definition of this concept is rather complicated, but if explained in a simple way, then these are active substances that are synthesized in the body, necessary for the performance of all organs and systems. When the level of these substances in the body is disturbed, a hormonal failure occurs, which, first of all, affects the nervous system and the psychological state of a person, and only then dysfunctions of other systems begin to occur.

What hormones are can be understood by finding out their functions and significance in the human body. They are classified according to the place of formation, chemical structure and purpose.

According to chemical characteristics, the following groups are distinguished:

• protein-peptide (insulin, glucagon, somatropin, prolactin, calcitonin);
• steroids (cortisol, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol);
• amino acid derivatives (serotonin, aldosterone, angiothesin, erythropoietin).

A fourth group can be distinguished - eicosanoids. These substances are produced in non-endocrine organs and act locally. Therefore, they are called "hormone-like" substances.

• thyroid;
• parathyroid gland;
• pituitary;
• hypothalamus;
• adrenal glands;
• ovaries;
• testicles.

Each hormone in the human body has its own purpose. Their biological functions are shown in the following table:

This table only shows the main purposes of several hormones. But each of them can stimulate and be responsible for several functions at once. Here are a few examples: Adrenaline is not only responsible for muscle contraction, but also regulates pressure and in some way participates in carbohydrate metabolism. Estrogen, which stimulates reproductive function, affects blood clotting and lipid metabolism.

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and has a very small weight - about 20 grams. But this small organ plays a big role in the body - it is in it that hormones are produced that stimulate the work of all organs and tissues.

And - the main hormones of this gland. For their formation, iodine is needed, which is why they are called iodine-containing. T3 - contains three iodine molecules. It is produced in small amounts and has the ability to quickly break down, getting into the blood. T4 - consists of four molecules, has a longer pot life and is therefore considered more important. Its content in the body is 90% of all human hormones.

Their functions:

• contribute to the development of proteins;
• stimulate energy metabolism;
• increase blood pressure;
• affect the work of the central nervous system;
• control cardiac performance.

If there is a lack of T3 and T4, then the performance of all body systems is disrupted:

• decreased intelligence;
• metabolism is disturbed;
• decreased production of sex hormones;
• dulled heart sounds.

Serious disorders in the psyche and nervous system can be observed. Elevated levels cause irritability, sudden weight gain or loss, tachycardia, hyperhidrosis.

The two states in which these substances exist are:

• Associated - do not affect the body as long as they are delivered by albumin protein to organs.
• Free - have a biologically active effect on the body.

Since everything is interconnected in the body, these types of hormones are reproduced under the influence of TSH produced in. That is why information is important for diagnosis not only about thyroid hormones, but also about the TSH hormone.

Parathyroid hormones

Behind the thyroid gland is the parathyroid gland, which is responsible for the concentration of calcium in the blood. This is due to - PTH (parathyrin or parathyroid hormone), which stimulates metabolic processes in the body.

Functions of PTH:

• reduces the level of calcium excreted by the kidneys;
• stimulates the absorption of calcium into the blood;
• increases the level of vitamin D3 in the body;
• with a deficiency of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, it removes them from the bone tissue;
• with an excess of phosphorus and calcium in the blood, deposits them in the bones.

A low concentration of parathyroid hormone leads to muscle weakness, problems with intestinal peristalsis, heart failure and a change in the mental state of a person.

Symptoms of a decrease in parathyroid hormone:

• tachycardia;
• convulsions;
• insomnia;
• occasional chills or feeling hot;
• heartache.

A high level of PTH has a negative effect on bone formation, the bones become more brittle.

Symptoms of elevated PTH:

• growth retardation in children;
• muscle pain;
• frequent urination;
• skeletal deformity;
• loss of healthy teeth;
• constant thirst.

The resulting calcification disrupts blood circulation, provokes the formation of stomach and duodenal ulcers, and the deposition of phosphate stones in the kidneys.

The pituitary gland is a brain process that produces a large number of active substances. They are formed in the anterior and posterior part of the pituitary gland and have their own special functions. It also produces several types of hormones.

Formed in the anterior lobe:

• Luteinizing and follicle-stimulating - are responsible for the reproductive system, the maturation of follicles in women and spermatozoa and men.
• Thyrotropic - controls the formation and release of the hormones T3 and T4, as well as phospholipids and nucleotides.
• Somatropin - controls the growth of a person and his physical development.
• Prolactin is the main function: the production of breast milk. It also takes part in the formation of secondary female characteristics and plays an insignificant role in material metabolism.

Synthesized in the posterior lobe:

• - affects the contraction of the uterus and, to a lesser extent, other muscles of the body.
• Vasopressin - activates the work of the kidneys, removes excess sodium from the body, participates in water-salt metabolism.

In the middle lobe - melanotropin, is responsible for the pigmentation of the skin. According to recent data, melanotropin may have an effect on memory.

The hormones produced in the pituitary gland are under the influence of the hypothalamus, which plays the role of a regulator of the secretion of active substances in the organs. is a link connecting the nervous and endocrine systems. The hormones of the hypothalamus - melanostatin, prolactostatin, inhibit the secretion of the pituitary gland. All the rest, for example, luliberin, folliberin, are aimed at stimulating the secretion of the pituitary gland.

The active substances that are formed in the pancreas make up only 1-2% of the total. But, despite the small amount, they play a significant role in digestion and other body processes.

What hormones are produced in the pancreas:

• Glucagon - increases the level of glucose in the blood, is involved in energy metabolism.
• Insulin - reduces the level of glucose, inhibits its synthesis, is a conductor of amino acids and minerals to the cells of the body, prevents protein deficiency.
• Somatostatin - reduces the level of glucagon, slows down blood circulation in the abdominal cavity, prevents the absorption of carbohydrates.
• Pancreatic polypeptide - regulates contractions of the muscles of the gallbladder, controls secreted enzymes and bile.
• Gastrin - creates the necessary level of acidity for the digestion of food.

Violation of the production of hormones by the pancreas, in the first place, leads to diabetes. An abnormal amount of glucagon provokes pancreatic tumors of a malignant nature. With failures in the production of somatostatin and leads to various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Hormones of the adrenal cortex and gonads

The adrenal medulla produces very important hormones - adrenaline and norepinephrine. Adrenaline is formed when stressful situations occur, for example, in shock situations, with fear, severe pain. Why is it needed? When there is resistance to negative factors, that is, it has a protective function.

Also, people notice that when they receive good news, there is a feeling of inspiration - the excitatory function of norepinephrine is activated. This hormone gives a feeling of confidence, stimulates the nervous system, and regulates blood pressure.

Corticosteroid substances are also produced in the adrenal glands:

• Aldosterone - regulates hemodynamics and water-salt balance in the body, is responsible for the amount of sodium and calcium ions in the blood.
• Corticosterone - participates only in water-salt metabolism.
• Deoxycorticosterone - increases the stamina of the body.
• - Designed to stimulate carbohydrate metabolism.

The reticular zone of the adrenal glands secretes sex hormones - that affect the development of secondary sexual characteristics. The female ones include - androstenedione and, which are responsible for hair growth, the functioning of the sebaceous glands and the formation of libido. Estrogens (estriol, estradiol, estrone) are produced in the ovaries, the reproductive function of the female body is completely envy from them.

In men, they practically do not play a role, since their main hormone is testosterone (formed from DEA) and is produced in the testicles. The second most important male hormone - dehydrotestosterone - is responsible for potency, development of the genital organs and libido. In some cases, in men, it can turn into estrogen, which leads to impaired sexual function. Human sex hormones, wherever they are formed, depend on each other and simultaneously affect the body of men and women.

Hormones are far from unimportant in all processes occurring in the human body, so you should pay attention to which hormones are responsible for certain processes occurring in our body so that you can fully appreciate and understand the role of hormones in the human body and his life. The main role of hormones is to ensure that the body is fine-tuned so that it functions properly.

Testosterone

Testosterone refers to the main male sex hormone, androgen. Its secretion is carried out by testicular cells. In small amounts, it is produced in women by the ovaries, as well as by the adrenal cortex in both sexes. Testosterone is biologically inactive, and it weakly binds to androgen receptors. This hormone is responsible for sexual desire. The more testosterone a woman has, the faster her muscles build up, but in case of its excess, the character becomes more aggressive, acne may appear on the skin.

Progesterone

Progesterone is the hormone of the corpus luteum of the ovaries. According to its chemical structure, it belongs to steroid hormones. Progesterone is produced by the ovaries. During pregnancy, a woman has a large amount of progesterone, thanks to which the placenta of the fetus is produced, there is a progressive increase in the amount of progesterone produced by the placenta from the 1st to the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, after which it drops sharply a few days before delivery. The basis of the action of progesterone is to ensure that the uterus is at rest, preparing it for pregnancy. Progesterone is capable of reducing feelings of hunger and thirst, as well as influencing the emotional state.

Estrogens

Estrogens belong to the subclass of steroid hormones, produced mainly in women by the ovarian follicular apparatus. Estrogens are produced in small amounts in males by the testicles and in both sexes by the adrenal cortex. The production of estrogen in women by the ovaries begins from the moment of their puberty and ends with the onset of menopause. Estrogen accelerates cell renewal, protects blood vessels from cholesterol deposits, increases skin density, promotes hydration, regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands, maintains bone strength and stimulates the formation of new bone tissue. If the body contains an excess amount of estrogen, then this leads to the fullness of the lower abdomen and thighs, this provokes development. In case of its lack of hair on the arms, face, legs, increased growth and rapid aging are noted.

Oxytocin

Oxytocin is produced by the adrenal glands. This hormone enters the blood in large quantities. It contributes to the contraction of the uterus, there are manifestations of mother's attachment to the child.

Insulin

Insulin is a peptide hormone. They have a multifaceted effect on the metabolism that occurs in almost all tissues. Insulin reduces the concentration of glucose in the blood, increases the permeability of plasma membranes for glucose, activates the key enzymes of glycolysis, stimulates the formation of glycogen in the muscles and liver, and increases the synthesis of fats and proteins. In case of insufficient production of insulin, diabetes mellitus develops.

Progestins

Progestins are hormones produced by the corpus luteum. They prepare the woman's body for pregnancy, ensure the formation of the mammary glands. In the case of an excess amount of progestin, kidney problems and the formation of ovarian cysts can be caused. If the amount of progestins is reduced, then this entails the threat of miscarriage.

Androgens

In the body of a woman, androgens ensure the development of the skeleton and the emergence of sexual desire. In the case of an excess amount of androgens, tumors appear.

Hormones are biologically active substances of an organic nature. They are produced in the endocrine glands, enter the bloodstream, bind to target cell receptors and affect metabolism and other physiological functions. They cause us fear and rage, depression and happiness, attraction and attachment.

adrenaline- the hormone of fear and anxiety. The heart goes to the heels, the person turns pale, the reaction is "hit and run." Stands out in situations of danger, stress and anxiety. Increased vigilance, internal mobilization, a sense of anxiety. The heart beats strongly, the pupils dilate ("from fear the eyes are large"), there is a narrowing of the vessels of the abdominal cavity, skin and mucous membranes; to a lesser extent, it constricts the vessels of the skeletal muscles, but dilates the vessels of the brain. Increases blood clotting (in case of wounds), prepares the body for long-term stress and increased physical exertion due to muscles. Relaxes the intestines (pooped one's pants with fear), hands and jaws tremble.

Norepinephrine - the hormone of hatred, rage, malice and permissiveness. The precursor of adrenaline, is produced in the same situations, the main action is the heart beats and vasoconstriction, but more and more violently and shorter, and the face turns red. Short burst of anger (norepinephrine), then fear (adrenaline). The pupils do not dilate, the vessels of the brain - the same way.
Animals determine by smell whether adrenaline or norepinephrine is released. If the adrenaline is high, they recognize the weakling and chase him. If norepinephrine, recognize the leader and are ready to obey.
The great commander Julius Caesar made up the best military detachments only from those soldiers who, at the sight of danger, blushed, not turned pale.
Joy is different. There is a calm and bright joy that gives us transparent happiness, and there is a violent, unrestrained joy, overflowing with pleasures and euphoria. So, these two different joys are made by two different hormones. Unbridled joy and euphoria is the hormone dopamine. Joy is bright and calm - this is the hormone serotonin.

Dopamine- a hormone of unbridled joy, pleasure and euphoria. Dopamine pushes us to exploits, madness, discoveries and accomplishments, a high level of this hormone turns us into donquixotes and optimists. On the contrary, if we lack dopamine in the body, we become dull hypochondriacs.
Any occupation or state from which we receive (or rather, look forward to) sincere joy and delight provokes a powerful release of the hormone dopamine into the blood. We like it, and after a while our brain "asks to repeat." This is how hobbies, habits, favorite places, adored food appear in our lives ... In addition, dopamine is injected into the body in stressful situations so that we do not die of fear, shock or pain: dopamine alleviates pain and helps a person adapt to inhuman conditions . Finally, the hormone dopamine is involved in important processes such as memory, thinking, regulation of sleep and wake cycles. Lack for any reason of the dopamine hormone leads to depression, obesity, chronic fatigue and dramatically reduces sexual desire. The easiest way to release dopamine is to have sex or listen to music that makes you shiver. In general - to do what the very anticipation of which makes you happy.

Serotonin- a hormone of light joy and happiness. If there is a lack of serotonin in the brain, the symptoms of this are a bad mood, increased anxiety, loss of strength, absent-mindedness, lack of interest in the opposite sex, depression, including in the most serious forms. The lack of serotonin is also responsible for those cases when we cannot get the object of adoration out of our head, or, alternatively, we cannot get rid of obsessive or frightening thoughts. If a person has an increase in the level of serotonin, his depression disappears, he ceases to cycle on unpleasant experiences, and good mood, joy of life, a surge of strength and vigor, activity, attraction to the opposite sex quickly come to the place of problems. Melatonin is the hormone of melancholy, the antipode of serotonin. Read more about serotonin →

Testosterone - the hormone of masculinity and sexual desire. Testosterone triggers male forms of sexual behavior: the most obvious differences between M and F, such as aggressiveness, risk-taking, dominance, energy, self-confidence, impatience, desire to compete, are determined primarily by the level of testosterone in the blood. Men become "roosters", easily flaring up with anger and showing pugnacity. Increasing testosterone levels improves intelligence and "churns" empathy.

Estrogen- hormone of femininity. Influence on character: fears, pity, empathy, affection for babies, crybaby. Estrogen develops in F an attraction to a dominant male, strong and experienced, recognized in society, and provides a number of other benefits: improves coordination and accuracy of movements (W is better than M in tasks that require quick skillful movements), enhances language abilities. If a boy is exposed in utero to abnormally high levels of estrogen, he will end up in a male body but with a female brain and grow up peaceful, sensitive, feminine.
Can you change your testosterone levels on your own? Yes. If a man practices martial arts, strength and extreme sports, more often allows himself anger, his body increases the generation of testosterone. If a girl often plays a blonde and allows herself fears, her body increases the production of estrogen.

Oxytocin- a hormone of trust and tender affection. An increase in the level of oxytocin in the blood causes a feeling of satisfaction in a person, a decrease in fears and anxieties, a feeling of trust and calmness next to a partner: a person who was perceived as a person who is mentally close to himself. At the physiological level, oxytocin triggers the attachment mechanism: it is oxytocin that makes a mother or father attached to their child, binds a woman to her sexual partner, and creates a romantic mood and sexual attachment and a willingness to be faithful to a man. In particular, oxytocin makes married/in love men stay away from attractive women. According to the level of oxytocin in the blood, one can confidently speak about a person’s propensity for fidelity and readiness to become attached in close relationships. It is curious that oxytocin treats autism well: both children and adults with autism, after treatment with oxytocin, became not only more emotional themselves, but also better understand and recognize the emotions of other people. People with high levels of oxytocin live healthier and longer lives, because oxytocin improves the state of the nervous and cardiac systems, plus stimulates the production of endorphins - hormones of happiness.

Oxytocin analogue - vasopressin gives roughly the same effect.

Phenylethylamine - the hormone of love: if it "jumped" into us at the sight of an attractive object, a lively sympathy and love attraction ignite in us. Phenylethylamine is present in chocolate, sweets and diet drinks, but feeding these products will not help much: to create a state of love, another phenylethylamine is needed, endogenous, that is, secreted by the brain itself. Love potions exist in the tale of Tristan and Isolde or in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, but in reality our chemical system jealously guards its exclusive right to control our emotions.

endorphins are born in a victorious battle and help to forget about the pain. Morphine is the basis of heroin, and endorphin is an abbreviation for endogenous morphine, that is, a drug that is produced by our body itself. In high doses, endorphin, like other opiates, improves mood and triggers euphoria, but it is wrong to call it the “hormone of happiness and joy”: dopamine causes euphoria, and endorphins only contribute to the activity of dopamine. The main action of endorphins is different: it mobilizes our reserves and allows us to forget about the pain.

Conditions for the production of endorphins: a healthy body, serious physical activity, a little chocolate and a feeling of joy. For a fighter, this is a victorious fight on the battlefield. The fact that the wounds of the winners heal faster than the wounds of the vanquished was known in ancient Rome. For a sportsman, this is a "second wind", which opens on a long distance ("runner's euphoria") or in a sports competition, when the forces seem to be running out, but the victory is close. Joyful and long sex is also a source of endorphins, while in men it is triggered more by vigorous physical activity, and in women by a feeling of joy. If women are more active in sex, and men are enthusiastically joyful, the stronger their health and richer experiences will be.

The main thing that is important to know about hormones is that most of them are triggered by the same physical activity that they produce. Read the article again:
In order for a man to increase his masculinity, he needs to start behaving courageously: testosterone triggers healthy aggressiveness, but it is also triggered by martial arts, strength and extreme sports. If a girl often plays a blonde and allows herself fears, her body increases the production of estrogen, triggering fears and anxieties.

Oxytocin builds trust and close attachment, but it also triggers the same thing: start trusting your loved ones, say kind words to them, and you will increase your oxytocin level.

Endorphin helps to overcome pain and gives strength to the almost impossible. What is needed to start this process? Your willingness to exercise, your habit of overcoming yourself...

If you want to experience elation and euphoria more often, go somewhere where this behavior is practiced. Start screaming with delight in the company of people like you - the dopamine that bubbles up in your blood will delight you. The behavior of delight triggers the experience of delight.

A depressed person chooses gray tones, but mood-enhancing serotonin is triggered primarily by bright sunlight. A person in a bad mood stoops and prefers to lock himself in solitude. But just a good posture and walking will help the production of serotonin, which triggers you to feel joy and happiness. Total: get out of the lair, straighten your back, turn on the bright light, that is, behave like a joyful person behaves, and your body will begin to produce serotonin, the hormone of joy and happiness.

WANT TO CHANGE YOUR STATE - START CHANGE YOUR BEHAVIOR!