PREVENTIVE CARE OF THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
It has been said
that we are what our glands make us. That, of course, is an oversimplification.
Other factors enter the picture-but the glands do, indeed, have a vital role,
influencing structure, function, and personality. What everyday care is
required to prevent disease of the endocrine system? Everything that
contributes to good general health contributes to good health of the endocrine
glands.
That includes sound nutrition; it includes proper exercise and other
physical activity, which have a stimulating effect on many of the glands; it
includes the avoidance as much as possible of excessive stress and strain,
which may debilitate glandular functioning. If you suspect at any time that you
may have a glandular problem, don't toy with the idea or attempt
self-treatment.
Let your physician consider the problem, make any necessary
tests, arrive at an informed diagnosis-and then, using the constantly growing
knowledge of endocrinology and growing stockpile of therapeutic aids, provide
treatment.
The sooner any
endocrine disorder is discovered and properly treated, the more likely the
prevention of debilitating conditions and complications. Some specific things
to do : To protect the islets of Langerhans so they will secrete insulin
normally, two items are important. First, keep your weight normal; obesity
promotes diabetes.
Second, use as little refined sugar as possible. We urge,
too, that you read our section on diabetes and make certain that at your
periodic medical checkups tests for diabetes are included. To protect the
thyroid gland, use iodized salt, especially if you live away from the
seacoasts. To protect the ovaries and testes against venereal disease, see our
discussion of gonorrhea (page 580).
To help assure the health of the adrenals,
get reasonable amounts 'of physical activity which can provide normal
stimulation for these glands. There is no primary protection for the pituitary,
parathyroids, and other endocrine glands. See the Index for listing of diseases
of these glands and what can be done for secondary prevention.
