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Iodine-The Metabolizer

Writer: Cynthia A. Barrington, BCHHP, CNHPCynthia A. Barrington, BCHHP, CNHP

Iodine is one of eight essential trace minerals. It's called essential because our body doesn't make it. We have to get it from the foods we eat. Iodine is an essential part of the thyroid horomones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothryonine (T3), which are used by the body to regulate many important biochemical reactions. Think "hormones." Iodine is a must for balance.


Iodine is considered the "anchor" mineral. It is needed by the body for all other minerals to be absorbed.

Benefits

  • Good metabolism

  • Proper thyroid function

  • Physical and mental development

  • Prevents goiter

  • Aids the brain and spinal nerves

  • Aids blood vessels

  • Gives proper sexual potency

  • May help with fibrocystic breasts

Signs of Deficiency

  • Nervous tension

  • Trouble maintaining proper weight

  • Lack of endurance

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Lowered mental function

  • Unhealthy hair, nails, skin, and teeth

  • Depression

  • Suicidal tendencies

  • Mental retardation in children

  • Linked to breast cancer

Signs of Toxicity

  • Metallic taste

  • Sores in mouth

  • Swollen salivary glands

  • Diarrhea and vomiting

Food Sources

  • Asparagus

  • Cheese

  • Cows milk

  • Dulse

  • Eggs

  • Garlic

  • Ice cream

  • Lima beans

  • Mushrooms

  • Salt-Celtic or Pink Himalayan

  • Saltwater fish

  • Sesame seeds

  • Seaweed/Kelp

  • Shellfish

  • Summer squash

  • Yogurt

Note

Certain foods can block the absorption of iodine if eaten in large amounts. This includes Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, peaches, pears, spinach (also a source of iodine), and turnips.


Herbal Sources

  • Kelp

  • Irish moss

  • Black walnut

  • Dulse

Resources

  1. Hovis, B. S., ND, MH, CCII. (n.d.). Nutrition-Vitamins & Minerals. Retrieved March 15, 2021, from https://trinityschool.instructure.com/courses/499/pages/week-1-lecture-3-vitamins-and-minerals

  2. Office of dietary supplements - iodine. (n.d.). Retrieved April 07, 2021, from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/

  3. Iodine deficiency. (n.d.). Retrieved April 07, 2021, from https://www.thyroid.org/iodine-deficiency/



Comentários

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

Cynthia A. Barrington is not a physician and the relationship between her and her clients is not as prescriber and patient but as educator and client. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. It is fully the client's choice whether or not to take advantage of the information Cynthia presents. Naturopathy, homeopathy, flower essences, and any other recommendations do not "treat" illnesses; they address the entire person as a matter of wholeness that is an educational process, not a medical one. In order to be treated or diagnosed, Cynthia believes the advice of a holistic physician is in order. Never stop taking prescription medications without first consulting your physician. Consult your physician before starting a fitness program or taking supplements.

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