Your pituitary gland is a pea-sized gland at the base of your skull that secretes hormones, or chemicals in your bloodstream. It's sometimes called the "master gland" because it controls numerous important functions including your body temperature, growth during childhood, thyroid activity, urine production and sexual hormone production. In addition to seeking treatment for related medical conditions, a healthy diet may help ensure that your pituitary gland functions normally.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide rich amounts of glucose, which is your body's main dietary source of energy. Consuming too few carbohydrate-rich foods can cause or worsen fatigue, which can result from your pituitary gland under-stimulating your thyroid gland, according to "The Encyclopedia of Nutrition and Good Health" by Robert A. Ronzio. And unlike refined grains, such as white flour, whole grains have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels and promote longer-lasting energy, mood balance and appetite control. Nutritious examples include oats, brown rice, wild rice, barley and air-popped popcorn.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta carotene, which support your body's ability to resist, and heal from, illness. Antioxidants may also lower your risk for infections and complications related to surgery, which is a common treatment form for pituitary tumors. Particularly antioxidant-rich varieties include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots and squash.
Healthy Fats
Fats signal the portion of your brain called the hypothalamus, which works with your pituitary gland to manage your appetite. Diseases related to your pituitary gland, such as hypothyroidism, can cause appetite increases. Because saturated and trans-fats can increase your risk for inflammation, type 2 diabetes and heart disease, consume healthy fats most often. Valuable sources include nuts, seeds, cold-water fish, such as salmon and mackerel, avocados and vegetable oils, such as canola and olive.
Plant-Based Protein
Eating too much animal protein in the form of meat, eggs and dairy products can offset your hormone levels and increase your risk for problems related to your pituitary gland, according to certified clinical nutritionist and author of "Revitalize Your Hormones" Theresa Dale. Plant foods particularly rich in protein include beans, lentils, tofu, soy milk and nuts such as almonds.
References
- University of Pittsburgh: What is the Pituitary Gland?
- "The Encyclopedia of Nutrition and Good Health"; Robert A. Ronzio; 2003
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Endocrinology Health Guide; Aug. 3, 2010
- "Revitalize Your Hormones"; Theresa Dale; 2005
