Iodine-The Metabolizer

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

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