3
Chronic stress: Studies show stress may lead to an abnormal melatonin release by the pineal gland, contributing to cortisol production. Over the long term, elevated cortisol levels trigger the production of glucose, leading to higher blood-sugar levels.
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4
Fluoride exposure: Studies show that fluoride causes decreased melatonin production and alters normal pineal function.
5
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Drug use: Recreational and prescription drugs have been shown to alter pineal gland function and patterns of melatonin secretion.
6
Aging: As we age, the pineal gland secretes less melatonin, causing us to sleep less and have trouble falling asleep.
Pineal Gland
Six Ways to Keep the Pineal Gland Health
Tiny Organ, Mighty Function 1 he pineal gland, located in the center of the brain, has been the subject of much discussion lately. Fortunately, there’s no truth to the rumors that it can be damaged by infrared scanners used to screen for Covid-19 symptoms (read more about that below). But medical scientists are exploring how calcification of the pineal gland might play a role in certain health conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, rapid aging, headaches and migraines, schizophrenia, breast cancer, prostate cancer, insulin resistance and stroke. This pinecone-shaped organ is tiny, but it has a big job. It produces melatonin, a critical component in our circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles. It also plays a vital role in bone metabolism; mental health, especially countering Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD); the development of the ovaries and testes;
and regulation of the menstrual cycle and other functions. Research suggests that damage to the pineal gland can alter the behavior of the pituitary gland, thus affecting a wide range of hormonal issues, including growth and thyroid function.
Six Ways the Pineal Gland Gets Damaged
1
Working nights and sleeping days: Studies have shown that graveyard-shift workers are 1.5 times more likely to get breast cancer due to disruption of their circadian rhythm. Morning light triggers the circadian rhythm, which regulates the pineal gland’s release of melatonin.
2
Blue-light exposure: Light from TVs, phones and other electronics can interfere with the release of melatonin by the pineal gland.
Safe Scanning No-contact thermometers pointed at the forehead pose no threat to the pineal gland, despite social media rumors to the contrary. According to Dr. Haris Sair, director of neuroradiology at Johns Hopkins University, these devices simply detect infrared heat; they don’t emit radiation (or anything else). 24
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2
No TV or cellphones in the bedroom. Blue light interferes with the release of melatonin from the pineal gland. Even when they’re off, electronics have blinking red or glowing green lights and emit EMFs.
3
Meditate daily. Studies show mindful meditation produces deep-brain waves and enhances healing of the pineal gland.
4
Exercise daily. Even a simple 10-minutes walk releases hormones that support circadian rhythm and nightly release of melatonin.
5
Regulate digestion. The gut is our “second brain.” Regulating it supports pineal gland function.
6
Try acupuncture: If you’re following steps one through five and still want professional support for your pineal gland, acupuncture is a great option.
Acupuncture for the Pineal Gland In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the primary point for pineal gland support
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T
by Pamela Purser
Get on a sleep schedule. Sleep patterns won’t change overnight, so make small changes slowly. Prepare for bedtime mentally at least 30 minutes beforehand, and avoid going to bed past midnight. I’ve found Golden Milk to be an excellent sleep aid.
