Element Iodine

The element iodine is vital to keep your thyroid functioning well. It is a nonmetallic element belonging to the halogen family. It forms an essential component of the thyroid hormones, which regulate cell growth and activity.

Element Iodine Deficiency

Iodine is very important during pregnancy and early infancy. In rare cases iodine deficiency during this time can result in mental retardation and impaired motor skills.

For adults, low iodine intake or a very high iodine element can cause hypothyroidism, which is an under active thyroid. The symptoms for this include low energy levels, dry, scaly or yellowish skin, tingling and numbness in the extremities and weight gain.

You can also experience forgetfulness, personality changes, depression and anemia. Women can have prolonged and heavy periods. It can also cause carpal tunnel syndrome and Raynaud’s phenomenon.

It can also raise cholesterol levels. When hypothyroidism is corrected, it can lead to a drop in cholesterol levels from 20-30%.

Too much iodine may cause either hypothyroidism (under active thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (over active thyroid). Hyperthyroidism may also occur as a result of a long term iodine deficiency, especially in the elderly.

Low Iodine Diet

Before undergoing radioactive screening, patients are asked to go on a low iodine diet. Foods that are natural sources of iodine and that should be avoided during this time include saltwater fish, lobster, oysters, canned salmon, shrimp, seaweed, milk and salted nuts, seeds, snack foods and table salt.

Foods that are okay to eat while on a low iodine diet include egg whites, fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen vegetables that don’t have salt or other high iodine ingredients added and canned peaches, pears and pineapples. It is also okay to eat natural, unsalted peanut butter, popcorn popped in vegetable oil or air popped, clear sodas and coffee and tea made with distilled water.

Organic iodine obtained from kelp does not easily dissipate and is more likely to be absorbed than inorganic iodine. Research shows that 76% of iodine in salt was lost during the process of production and cooking.

The element iodine is essential for the thyroid. A low iodine diet may be needed, but should be monitored by your physician. Organic iodine is one of the types of iodine to take.




more than element iodine on our Dietary Mineral Supplements page


Nutritional Supplements Guide home page

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