Iodine is a trace mineral that the body needs to produce thyroid hormones, which are essential for normal growth, development and to regulate metabolism. These hormones also affect heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Our body needs iodine but does not make it; therefore we must get iodine from a proper diet and supplementation.
There are very few foods that provide us with the proper amounts of iodine. Diets rich in dairy products, seafood, and iodized salt can provide you with the proper amounts needed, but these types of diets pose a problem for vegetarians, individuals with lactose intolerance or individuals on a low-salt diet. Although traces of iodine are available in some of these foods, most of the time they fail to reach the required levels necessary and may put us at risk for an iodine deficiency.
If you do not have enough iodine in your diet, iodine deficiencies can result in goiter, hypothyroidism, autoimmune disorders and pregnancy-related problems. There can be harmful effects if taken in excess, such as metallic taste in mouth, increased salivation, sneezing, acne, racing heart and anxiety.
How do you know if you need to supplement with iodine? Your levels can be checked by a blood test or by a urine specimen, which gives a more accurate reading. Dosage must be individualized, so be sure to consult with your health care practitioner before taking an iodine supplement.
It is evident that iodine is an essential mineral connected to certain aspects of our health. According to the International Center for Nutritional Research, iodine supplementation is a safe way to obtain adequate levels of iodine. With sufficient supplementation, there is no reason that any of us should be at risk for an iodine deficiency.
Here Are Two Of Our Most Popular Iodine Supplements: Iodizyme-HP by Biotics Research i-Throid by RLC Labs
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