Neuroscience Bite: The Hypothalamus

The Hypothalamus is a midbrain structure that is a part of the Limbic System. The best way to summarize that the Hypothalamus does is to think of it as a low level management system for some of your bodies natural responses and functions. Some of the things that the Hypothalamus does:

1.Control of the Pituitary gland and Thyroid gland and to control blood pressure
2.Autonomic control- The Sympathetic and pParasympathetic nervous systems.
3.Temperature regulation
4.Fluid balance: Drinking control
5.Eating control: Feeding centre and satiety centre
6.Sleep and wake regulation (Supra-chiasmatic nucleus)
7.Sexual responses
8.Linkage to other parts of the Limbic system