Adrenal Gland Functions

The adrenal gland functions as a part of the endocrine system and releases hormones within the body. The role of hormones is to go to the other systems of the body, order cells when to activate and when to stop activity. The adrenal gland gives orders to the sex organs, plays a role in metabolism and manufactures sympathetic nervous system response (fight-or-flight) hormones.

Types

The adrenal gland sits on top of the kidney. It has an inner medulla and outer cortex. The inner medulla produces epinephrine (adrenaline) while the outer cortex produces cortisol.

Cortisol Function

The adrenal glands produce cortisol. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is used to bring homeostasis (balance) back to the body during a period of stress. Thus, it has received the nickname "stress hormone."

Cortisol is an antagonist to insulin and breaks down fats and proteins. Therefore, it plays a role in controlling how the body uses nutrients. It does this by selecting the best nutrient to meet placed demands.

Cortisol is linked to weight gain for two reasons. First, cortisol moves fat from the liver to the deep abdominal muscles. Second, cortisol increases appetite.

Misconceptions

Television commercials promise weight loss by inhibiting the effects of cortisol release. No one gains weight simply because of an increase in cortisol production. Proper nutrition, sleep and regular physical activity go a long way to reducing stress, thus reducing cortisol. These steps are a long-term health care solution; pills are part of the problem.

Potential

Prolonged secretion of cortisol causes hypoglycemia and weakens the immune system. The effect on the immune system is why cortisol is used to treat allergies, because allergies are a result of a hyperactive immune system.

Adrenaline Function

While the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal gland produces cortisol, the inner layer (medulla) produces epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. Epinephrine (adrenaline) works with the sympathetic nervous system to elevate heart rate. Adrenaline also prompts carbohydrate metabolism.

A release of adrenaline is called "adrenaline rush" because it is the most important hormone in "fight or flight" sympathetic nervous system responses. When the central nervous system deems a situation to be dangerous or an emergency, adrenaline is released.

Adrenaline increases heart rate and stroke volume, as well as dilates the muscles of the legs. It also increases blood sugar by prompting the use of glucose. The increase in blood and energy flow heightens oxygen and glucose delivery to the muscles and the brain. The overall feeling of an adrenaline rush is profoundly positive.

Benefits

Epinephrine (adrenaline) is used to treat cardiac arrest and/or cardiac dysrhythmias. A scene in the movie "Pulp Fiction" made this treatment part of popular culture.

Resources

• The Adrenal Fatigue Controversy