A gland is a part of the body that makes and releases substances like hormones, enzymes, or fluids to help the body function. Think of it like a tiny factory—some glands send their products directly into the bloodstream to control things like growth, energy, or mood (these are called endocrine glands, like the thyroid or adrenal glands). Others send their stuff through tiny tubes or ducts to places like the skin, mouth, or stomach (exocrine glands), such as sweat glands cooling you down or salivary glands helping digest food. Every gland has a specific job, and together they keep the body balanced and running smoothly. Without them,…
