The glandular system is responsible for numerous functions in the body, including growth, metabolism and mood. Different glands, like the pituitary, hypothalamus, adrenals and thyroid, produce and secrete different hormones into the bloodstream that trigger a range of biochemical reactions, from producing arousal to inducing sleepiness. All glands require a steady supply of nutrients to function properly, while some may also malfunction in the presence of an excess of certain nutrients. While this balance of nutrients varies from gland to gland, in general, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and unsaturated oils are beneficial for all the glands.
Pituitary
Considered "the Master Gland," the pituitary gland controls the functioning of the other glands. Therefore, nutrition that benefits the pituitary benefits the entire glandular system. Essential for pituitary function is the proper balance of iron, neither too much nor too little. Iron helps oxygen flow to the brain, where the pituitary gland is located, but too much iron can interfere with pituitary function, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Hypothalamus
The hypothalamus sits just above the pituitary in the brain and is responsible for all communication between the glandular system and the nervous system. It monitors and regulates the involuntary, or autonomic, nervous system as it is involved in metabolism, hunger, thirst and body temperature, among other factors. It is also essential for the proper assimilation of the nutrients calcium and magnesium. A diet providing a balance of calcium and magnesium is beneficial for the hypothalamus. It also requires essential fatty acids, as found in flax, fish, walnuts and soybeans, to perform its functions.
Adrenals
The adrenal glands are involved in our sexual response and our response to stress, among others. It also regulates the balance of sodium and potassium in the body. Therefore, high-potassium, low-salt foods are beneficial for the adrenals. Additionally it helps to metabolize blood sugar, protein and fat. To function properly, the adrenals require the full B complex of vitamins, and most particularly vitamin B-5, of which Dr. James F. Balch, in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," suggests taking 100 mg three times per day. Tuna, salmon and other deep-ocean fish are high in vitamin B-5 and the rest of the B-complex, as is liver. Balch also recommends 500 mg daily of l-Tyrosine, an amino acid vital for the proper synthesis of adrenal hormones. Red meat and foods that have been processed, refined or fried are particularly hard on the adrenals.
Thyroid
One of the most common causes of thyroid problems is an iodine deficiency. One of the richest known sources of iodine is seaweed, though it can also be found in fish, liver, eggs and milk. For an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, iodine is particularly vital. For an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, foods high in B vitamins, and particularly B-1, B-2 and B-6, are recommended, including Brewer's yeast, dark, leafy greens, cabbage-family vegetables, root vegetables and fruits such as peaches and pears. Many of these foods are also high in vitamin A, which is important in the thyroid-pituitary link. Regardless of thyroid condition, essential fatty acids are vital for proper thyroid function.
References
- Centers For Disease Control And Prevention "Hemochromatosis"; Sep 2010
- "Prescription For Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, et al.; 1996
