hypothalamus

an area of the FOREBRAIN in the floor of the third VENTRICLE , having the THALAMUS above and PITUITARY GLAND below. It contains centres controlling vital processes, e.g. fat and carbohydrate METABOLISM , thirst and water regulation, hunger and eating, thermal regulation and sexual function. It also plays a part in the emotions and in the regulation of sleep. It controls the SYMPATHETIC and PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEMS and secretions from the pituitary gland.