4The Function of the Pineal Gland
The pineal gland plays an important role in producing and secreting melatonin. This hormone is synthesized from elements of the neurotransmitter serotonin. It has many important effects on your circadian rhythm and sleep quality. The production of melatonin can be affected by light exposure. Based on the amount of light perceived by your eyes, the pineal gland may change the amount of melatonin produced. This can explain why we should not use digital devices before sleeping time to avoid affecting the circadian timing, which might disrupt your sleeping schedule and cause many other health issues.
Melatonin released by the pineal gland might also help with the timing of sexual maturation. Levels of this hormone slightly drop at puberty and pineal tumors eliminating the production of melatonin might lead to premature puberty in kids. Melatonin can be a very powerful antioxidant as well. It might help neurons in the central nervous system fight against free radicals, such as hydrogen peroxide or nitric oxide. This subsequently reduces the risk of neurodegenerative disease, cancer, and other health issues. [4]
