Which system comprises glands that produce hormones regulating various body functions?

The endocrine system is responsible for producing and secreting hormones that play a crucial role in regulating a wide array of body functions. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to various organs and tissues, facilitating processes such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and the body's response to stress. This system includes various glands, such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and pancreas, each of which serves distinct but interconnected roles in maintaining homeostasis and overall health.

By specifically regulating bodily functions through hormonal signals, the endocrine system provides a slower, yet longer-lasting mode of control in comparison to the nervous system, which utilizes quick electrical impulses to transmit messages. This distinction emphasizes the varied approaches that different body systems use to maintain balance and respond to internal and external stimuli.