Word parts
What it means
The hypothalamus links the nervous system to the hormone system. It sits just above the pituitary gland and tells it which hormones to release. It also acts as the body's thermostat, starts thirst and hunger, and releases antidiuretic hormone (ADH) through the pituitary to control how much water the kidneys keep, which is how it helps keep homeostasishoh-mee-oh-STAY-sisThe body's way of keeping its inside conditions, such as temperature, fluids and blood sugar, steady.home/o same-stasis standing still, staying the sameFull entry .
At a glance
| Spanish | hipotálamo |
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Related terms
central nervous system
The brain and the spinal cord together.
homeostasis
The body's way of keeping its inside conditions, such as temperature, fluids and blood sugar, steady.
cortisol
A steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps control blood sugar, blood pressure, stress and inflammation.