Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is like a chain of command that helps keep us healthy. It starts in the brain, with the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is like the leader and it sends out messages to the pituitary gland, which is like the messenger. The pituitary gland then sends out messages to other parts of the body, like the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands then release hormones into the body that help us stay healthy, like cortisol. Cortisol helps us with things like managing stress and regulating our body’s natural energy (sugar and fat). By helping keep our body healthy, the HPA axis helps us stay strong and healthy.