Why do we need Iodine?

Iodine deficiency can be a major contributor to the cause of congenital hypothyroidism and goiter. Congenital hypothyroidism can lead to mental retardation, lower IQ and stunted growth. Symptoms typical of iodine deficiency include cold extremities, fatigue, insomnia, dry eyes, frequent crying (iodine is needed for lacromation and tearing), weight gain, crackingheels, and palpable tenderness in the sternum. Over the years, sodium restriction, as directed by many health professionals in an attempt to reduce hypertension and cardiovascular disease, has led to a decline in iodine intake. Many brands of salt today are not enriched with iodine. A goiter is often the result of the thyroid gland becoming enlarged in an effort to compensate for a lack of iodine. Currently, 200 million people are affected by goiters.

Good sources of dietary iodine include iodized salt, seafood, kelp, seaweed, asparagus, spinach and Swiss chard. However, the body does not store iodine for long periods of time, so regular intake through diet, and possibly supplementation, is important. 

The RDA for iodine may be too low

The RDA for iodine is only 150 mcg per day. The RDA for pregnancy is 175 mcg and for lactation 200 mcg iodine. These very low RDA’s were set as a minimum amount needed just to prevent hypothyroidism. Whole body needs and optimal thyroid function were not taken into account. Today as more and more doctors are testing for iodine deficiency, they are sometimes finding that a significant percentage of patients have suboptimal iodine intake and are not getting enough for optimal thyroid health.

Iodine is used in support of:

• Breast cancer

• Thyroid nodules

• PCOS

• Hypothyroidism

• Hyperthyroidism

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

• Fibrocystic breasts

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take one capsule daily or as directed by your health care practitioner.