Each gland consists of a medulla (the center of the gland) which is surrounded by the cortex. The adrenal cortex & adrenal medulla have very different functions. The main distinctions between them is that the hormones released by the adrenal cortex are necessary for life; those secreted by the adrenal medulla are not. The outer part of the adrenal gland called the cortex produces steroid hormones necessary for fluid and electrolyte (salt) balance in the body such as cortisol (which helps regulate metabolism and helps your body respond to stress), aldosterone (which helps control blood pressure) and testosterone (sex steroid). The inner part of the adrenal gland called the medulla produces nonessential (that is, you don’t need them to live) hormones such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are commonly called adrenaline (which helps your body react to stress) and noradrenaline. The adrenal glands are also an important source of sex steroids, such as estrogen and testosterone. Under normal circumstances, the highest levels of stress hormones are released in the morning and lower levels are released at night. Cortisol participates in the metabolism of carbohydrates & regulates blood sugar. Adrenaline increases metabolic rate & makes other physiological changes to help the body respond to danger. When the body experiences stress or danger, the adrenal glands release adrenaline & cortisol. Adrenaline hormone increases alertness, while cortisol hormone converts protein into energy and releases stores of glucose for energy to meet the demands of a stressful or dangerous situation. The adrenal response speeds up heart & respiratory rates and raises blood pressure. Muscles tense and digestion slows down. Every adrenal gland function prepares the body for attack and each is an ancient human response. Adrenal functions restores normal levels of activity & hormones when stress passes. My websites: Adrenal Gland