Question

Which glands produces hormones that help to regulate body metabolism?

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is: thyroid glands.

Explanation:

The glands that regulate the body's metabolism are the thyroid glands.

The thyroid gland is located in the anterior portion of the neck, in front of the larynx and the trachea, and consists of two lobes that are connected with one another.

The thyroid has two types of cells, one that produces thyroxine and triiodothyronine, and another one that produces calcitonin. Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are secreted by follicular cells and have the function to regulate the metabolism. Calcitonin is secreted by parafollicular cells and plays a role in regulating calcium homeostasis.

The thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, which are composed of iodine, act on almost every cell in the body to increase the basal metabolic rate, which affects the synthesis of proteins, as well as intervening in the development and maturation of all the cells in the human body. Thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism of fat, proteins and carbohydrates, so their function deeply impacts how each individual uses energetic compounds. Thyroid hormones also enhance the body's sensitivity to catecholamines (like adrenaline).