The hypothalamus is the main output of the limbic system and helps maintain homeostasis by either regulating the autonomic nervous system or controlling hormone release from the pituitary gland.  It produces hormones that control body temperature, hunger, mood, sex drive, sleep, thirst, heart rate, and motivational behavior. Overall, it helps connect the nervous and endocrine systems via the pituitary gland. This almond-sized organ is located above the pituitary/brain stem and below the thalamus.