The cortex also secretes corticosteroids in response to stress, and these hormones help us to cope with long-term stressors by converting protein to energy. The cortex produces hormones that are essential in regulating excretory, immune defense, metabolic, mineral balancing and reproductive functions. The medulla triggers the instinctual “flight or fight” response, including the increase of blood sugar levels, the rate of breathing, cardiac output and blood flow to the brain, lungs and muscles. We have two adrenal glands, which are comprised of two parts: the medulla and the cortex. The adrenal glands get very little attention in Western medicine, yet they have the important job of secreting sex hormones and stress hormones that guide reactions to a stressor throughout the entire body.
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