What type of secretion is typically produced by eccrine glands?

Eccrine glands primarily produce a secretion that is composed mostly of water and salt. These glands play a crucial role in thermoregulation, helping to cool the body through the process of sweating. The fluid released from eccrine glands is typically clear and is designed to help maintain the body’s temperature, especially during exercise or in hot environments. The presence of salt in this secretion also assists in regulating the body’s electrolyte balance.

In contrast, other types of glands, such as sebaceous glands, are responsible for producing thicker, oily substances that help lubricate the skin and hair. Eccrine sweat is not associated with strong scents or greasiness, which further defines it from other types of glandular secretions, such as those produced by apocrine glands, which can be milky or sticky and are associated with body odor. Thus, water and salt accurately describe the secretion produced by eccrine glands.