Health Benefits of Iodine for Thyroid Health
Iodine is a crucial micronutrient found in many foods, albeit in trace amounts. It plays a vital role in helping the thyroid gland produce thyroid hormones. Since our bodies cannot produce iodine on their own, we must obtain it from our diet or supplements.
Over time, our soils have become depleted of micronutrients, leading to a reduction in the natural iodine levels in foods. Additionally, the shift from consuming natural plant and sea-based foods to processed junk foods has further decreased iodine levels in our diets.
What is the Thyroid?
The thyroid, often called the “master gland,” is one of the largest endocrine glands in the body. It is responsible for several critical processes, including energy metabolism, protein creation, and the body’s response to other hormones.
The thyroid produces two main hormones, T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which are essential for various bodily functions. These hormones require iodine molecules and the trace nutrient tyrosine for their production. The body captures iodine from the bloodstream and stores it in an “iodine trap.” Without sufficient iodine, these hormones cannot be produced, affecting overall health.
T3 and T4 are crucial for maintaining metabolic rate and ensuring the growth and proper functioning of almost all major organ systems. The body needs at least 70 μg of iodine daily to produce these hormones. A lack of iodine can also hinder the production of calcitonin, a chemical that helps balance calcium levels in the body.
The relationship between the thyroid gland, iodine levels, and overall health is delicate. Insufficient iodine can lead to decreased energy levels, hormonal imbalances, and changes in physical and emotional states.
Iodine Deficiencies Are a Global Issue
Iodine deficiency is a significant health concern in many parts of Europe, Russia, Asia, Australia, and Africa. Scientists agree that it remains a serious global health issue and is the most common cause of preventable brain damage in children worldwide. Approximately 1.9 billion people are at risk of iodine deficiency, with unborn babies and children being the most affected.
The World Health Organization estimates that around 1 billion people may experience health issues due to insufficient iodine intake. In Latin American countries, up to 25 percent of the population is at risk of developing goiters due to faulty thyroid function from a lack of dietary iodine.
This concern is also present in the West. Since 1998, iodine deficiency rates have dramatically increased in the United States, with the number of residents with low iodine intake quadrupling over the past 20 years. These lowered rates have been linked to dietary changes.
Iodine and the Thyroid Gland
It’s important to note that simply taking iodine supplements will not solve all thyroid conditions. Some thyroid imbalances are due to genetic conditions, such as autoimmune thyroid disease.
If you have a thyroid condition, it’s essential to determine if it is related to low iodine levels. You and your healthcare provider can assess this by examining your diet and geographic location. Iodine levels can be detected through a simple urine test. A small percentage of people are iodine-sensitive, so supplementation should start in small amounts to prevent a thyroid flare-up.
The Health Benefits of Nascent Iodine
Nascent iodine is a supplemental form of iodine designed to be more bioavailable, meaning your body can use it more efficiently. Here are some top benefits of supplementing with iodine:
It helps maintain balanced thyroid iodine levels, improves thyroid and endocrine system function, and may improve emotional disorders by balancing glandular systems. It also regulates hormones associated with weight gain, acts as a moisturizing expectorant for the respiratory tract, and protects the thyroid from absorbing radioactive isotopes. Additionally, it assists in brain development, may help reduce or prevent goiters, aids digestion, transit time, and normal bowel function, and increases energy and stamina. It supports breast milk production and quality, helps balance body odors, and detoxifies halogens like bromides, fluoride, and chlorine.
I recommend regular iodine supplementation and personally use a product called Detoxadine. Detoxadine is manufactured with a unique transformative bio-elemental matrix using a revolutionary process and contains nano-colloidal nascent iodine.
How Iodine Affects Your Thyroid
Understanding the role of iodine in thyroid health is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Ensuring adequate iodine intake through diet or supplements can help support the thyroid gland’s essential functions and prevent various health issues related to iodine deficiency.
