Pituitary gland is a pea-sized gland located between the optic nerves, at the base of the skull. It is often referred to as the "master" gland because it controls the activity of the other endocrine glands. The gland produces a variety of hormones, including growth hormone, prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and oxytocin. Pituitary gland disorders such as pituitary tumors lead to increased or decreased secretion of the hormones. This may affect overall growth and development of the individual and affects the proper function of several organs and systems. Certain vitamins may promote healthy functioning of the gland.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells and is found in foods such as wheat germ, liver, eggs, nuts and olives. Your doctor may also recommend vitamin E supplements to treat a variety of conditions, including heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The vitamin also possesses significant antioxidant activity and may prevent oxidative stress and free-radical mediated damage of the pituitary gland and parts of the brain, according to a study published in the September 2009 issue of the "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition." High doses of the supplements may, however, increase the risk of heart disease and bleeding. Do not use them without consulting a doctor.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is another fat-soluble vitamin that helps maintain healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissues and mucous membranes. According to an article published in the March 2007 issue of "The Journal of Nutrition," deficiency of vitamin A and iodine can affect the expression of pituitary TSH genes, which in turn, may lead to abnormal levels of thyroid hormones in the body. Vitamin A can be obtained from foods such as egg, meat, dairy and fish. Vitamin A supplements may also be used under the supervision of a physician.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is another fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for formation and maintenance of bones. It may also promote the growth of the cells of the pituitary gland and help treat certain pituitary tumors, say the authors of a study published in the October 2002 issue of the journal "Brain Pathology." Apart from fortified dairy products, cereals and meat, exposure to sunlight can also stimulate the production of significant amounts of the vitamin in the body. Vitamin D supplements are also available. However, talk to a doctor before using them as they may lead to kidney stones, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is a part of the water-soluble vitamin B complex found in avocado, banana, legumes, meat and nuts. It is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous and immune systems. Synthetic and natural vitamin B-6 supplements are also available at most pharmacies without a prescription, and the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 200 mg of the vitamin per day to regulate the levels of pituitary hormone prolactin. However, side effects such as sensory changes and numbness may occur. Do not use vitamin B-6 without talking to your doctor.
References
- "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition"; Elevation by Oxidative Stress and Aging of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Activity in Rats and its Prevention by Vitamin E; N. Kobayashi, et al.; September 2009
- "Brain Pathology"; Vitamin D and Its Analog EB1089 Induce p27 Accumulation and Diminish Association of p27 with Skp2 Independent of PTEN in Pituitary Corticotroph Cells; Wei Liu, et al.; October 2002
- "The Journal of Nutrition"; Vitamin A Repletion in Rats with Concurrent Vitamin A and Iodine Deficiency Affects Pituitary TSHß Gene Expression and Reduces Thyroid Hyperstimulation and Thyroid Size; Ralf Biebinger, et al.; March 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Amenorrhea
