The adrenal glands are tiny, triangle-shaped glands positioned on top of the kidneys. These glands have two main sections--the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla--according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The adrenal glands work in tandem with the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to perform distinct functions. Having healthy adrenal glands ensures the normal operation of vital body functions.
Normal Fat Distribution and Energy Levels
The adrenal cortex section of the adrenal glands releases hormones such as cortisol into the body, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cortisol is responsible for regulating fat distribution. As such, healthy adrenal glands would generally ensure body fat is distributed within normal parameters. In addition to that, cortisol helps regulate the way the body metabolizes protein and carbohydrates. The body degrades protein and carbohydrates in order produce energy. Having normal levels of energy can thus be considered a sign of healthy adrenal glands, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Normal Sodium Levels and Blood Pressure
The adrenal cortex section of the adrenal glands produces and releases a hormone called aldosterone, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Aldosterone controls the amount of sodium excreted into urine. This hormone is responsible for maintaining correct sodium levels in the blood. Aside from regulating sodium and water levels in the blood, aldosterone also aids in regulating blood pressure, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Insufficient corticosteroid production may result in elevated sodium levels in the blood. This may result in more frequent urination. The adrenal medulla section of the adrenal glands produces noradrenaline, a hormone that increases blood pressure. Healthy adrenal glands usually mean normal sodium levels and blood pressure.
Normal Stress Response
The adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla sections of the adrenal glands is responsible for producing hormones that ensure a normal response to stress, notes KidsHealth.org. The adrenal medulla produces adrenaline and noradrenaline. Adrenaline can affect heart rate and blood flow to the brain and muscle and regulate metabolism, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Adrenalin also helps the liver convert glycogen into glucose, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Noradrenaline is primarily responsible for increasing blood pressure during stress reactions.
Sexual Development
The adrenal cortex section of the adrenal glands also produces hormones responsible for normal sexual development, notes KidsHealth.org. The adrenal cortex also produces estrogen and testosterone in addition to other glands in the body. As such, healthy adrenal glands helps ensure normal sexual development. Generally testosterone and male hormones are released in males to ensure proper sexual development. Female hormones are released in females for normal sexual growth and development.
