Which glands are responsible for regulating body temperature?

Sweat glands play a crucial role in regulating body temperature through the process of thermoregulation. These specialized glands produce sweat, which is primarily composed of water and electrolytes. When the body temperature rises, whether due to physical activity, environmental heat, or fever, the hypothalamus in the brain triggers the sweat glands to start producing sweat. As sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin, it helps to cool the body down, thus maintaining a stable internal temperature.

While other glands in the body have important functions, they do not directly contribute to temperature regulation in the same manner. For example, salivary glands are primarily involved in the production of saliva for digestion and do not play a role in thermoregulation. Sebaceous glands secrete oils to keep the skin lubricated but also do not contribute to temperature control. Thyroid glands manage metabolism and energy use in the body, but they indirectly influence body temperature rather than directly regulating it like sweat glands do.