hormonal and metabolic disorders
Effects of Aging on the Endocrine System
Introduction
The endocrine system consists of a group of glands and organs that regulate and control various body functions by producing and secreting hormones. Hormones are chemical substances that affect the activity of another part of the body. In essence, hormones serve as messengers, controlling and coordinating activities throughout the body. (See also Endocrine Glands .) Levels of most Endocrine Function decrease with aging, but some hormones remain at levels typical of those in younger adults, and some even increase. Even when hormone levels do not decline, Some hormones that decrease with aging include Estrogen(in women) Testosterone(in men) Growth hormone Melatonin None levels decline with Menopause . In men, Hormones that usually remain unchanged or only slightly decrease include Cortisol Insulin Thyroid hormones Hormones that may increase include Follicle-stimulating hormone Luteinizing hormone Parathyroid hormone therapy in menopausal women is discussed in Menopause . 