What do endocrine glands secrete?

Endocrine glands are specialized organs within the endocrine system that have the primary function of producing and releasing hormones directly into the bloodstream. Hormones are chemical messengers that play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among others. By secreting hormones, these glands help maintain homeostasis and facilitate communication between different parts of the body.

In contrast, enzymes are secreted by glands associated with the digestive system rather than the endocrine system. Antibodies are produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses, not by endocrine glands. Salts may be involved in various physiological processes but are not secreted by endocrine glands as part of their primary function. Thus, hormones are the correct secretion from endocrine glands, highlighting their essential role in bodily regulation.