What is the function of the Hypothalamus Gland?

One of the major functions of the hypothalamus is to maintain homeostasis, i.e. to keep the human body in a stable, constant condition. The hypothalamus responds to a variety of signals from the internal and external environment. Regulates metabolic processes and the Autonomic Nervous System. As different areas of the body send signals to the brain, they alert the hypothalamus to any unbalanced factors that need addressing. The hypothalamus then responds by releasing the right hormones into the bloodstream to balance the body. For example - if our body is too hot then it sweats......if out body is too cold then it will shiver. Responds to stress and controls our daily bodily rhythms such as the night-time secretion of melatonin from the pineal gland and the changes in cortisol (the stress hormone) and body temperature over a 24-hour period. The hypothalamus collects and combines this information and puts changes in place to correct any imbalances. Functions are regulate body temperature / thirst / appetite and weight control / sleep cycles / sex drive / childbirth / regulates heart rate and blood pressure / production of digestive juices / balancing bodily fluids / controlling emotions / fatigue / links the nervous system to the endocrine system / regulates the metabolic process and the autonomic nervous system / stimulates or inhibits the secretion of the pituitary gland.