What is the role of hormones in the body?

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes and maintaining homeostasis within the body. They are chemical messengers that are secreted into the bloodstream by endocrine glands. Once in circulation, hormones can influence a wide range of functions, including growth, metabolism, immune responses, and reproductive processes.

By ensuring that different bodily functions operate within optimal ranges, hormones help maintain balance, or homeostasis, despite changing internal and external environments. For example, insulin regulates blood sugar levels, while thyroid hormones affect metabolism and energy utilization. Thus, the function of hormones as regulators of physiological processes is fundamental to the body's ability to adapt and function effectively.