The primary function of the hypothalamus is to maintain the body as close to homeostasis as possible — the hypothalamus functions as a bridge between the nervous and endocrine systems. The network of hormone-producing organs and glands, the endocrine system, helps control body functions. The hypothalamus reacts by enhancing the appropriate endocrine activity to restore this balance. For example, the hypothalamus will tell the body to sweat if it obtains a signal that the internal temperature is too high.