The pineal gland just doesn’t get the same media coverage as other parts of the endocrine system like the thyroid gland, for instance. But it is just as important to the body’s overall health and well-being. The pineal gland derives its name from the fact that it is shaped like a pinecone and is located in the middle of the brain. Like all glands, it is responsible for the secretion of hormones. In this case, the pineal gland secretes melatonin, which helps establish the body’s sleep-wake cycles, and governs several sexual hormones as well. Keeping it healthy, then, is very important. Read on to find out more about the top foods to heat for a healthy pineal gland.
Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is great for pineal health because it is one of the richest natural sources of chlorophyll, the substance in leaves and grasses which gives them their characteristic green color. Chlorophyll, in turn, is important because it is a powerful detoxifier and helps to remove heavy metals, pesticides and other harmful substances from the body, thus helping to support pineal health. (1)
Nori
Nori and other seaweeds have been an important part of cuisine in Japan and other parts of Asia for thousands of years. Not only is it delicious and packed with nutrients, it is an incredibly rich source of iodine, which can still be lacking in many American diets. Healthy iodine levels have been associated with improved pineal function. (2)
Oregano
Oregano and the essential oil derived from it are also considered to be an excellent part of a diet which support pineal health. This is because the powerful compounds present naturally in the oregano plant are potent antioxidants which can reduce oxidative damage done to tissues throughout the body (including the pineal gland) and can protect them against the effects of toxins. (3)
Apple Cider Vinegar
While apple cider vinegar (ACV) has many exciting health benefits, what is of interest in this case is the malic acid it contains. Malic acid is one of the best natural detoxifiers around and has the ability to remove aluminum and other heavy metals from the body. This important because these metals often do damage to the brain, including the pineal gland; malic acid can help remove that threat. (4)
Beets
Beets are great for the pineal gland because they, too, are well-known detoxifiers, removing unwanted substances like heavy metals, pesticides and other toxins before they can compromise pineal health. The boron and the high amounts of Vitamin B that beets contain are what make them so effective at doing this. (5)
While some of these foods may sound exotic, they are all available in health food stores – and most are available in regular grocery markets. Adding them to the diet and consuming them regularly can help support pineal health, and this is turn can lead to both better sleep and sexual functioning.
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