Additional Information

Iodine was initially accidentally discovered in burnt sea weed by B.Courtois in 1811 and is one of the first minerals identified as essential to the health of the body. It is a primary component in seaweed and is well known as a treatment for goiter. The thyroid gland maintains the greatest concentration of iodine after it is absorbed from the intestinal tract.

Bodily Functions That Iodine Assists In

Iodine is essential in thyroid gland activity. It is stored in the thyroid gland as thyroglobin, a complex of protein and iodine. It is used to synthesize thyroxine, a thyroid specific hormone that is key in overall growth and development. This hormone regulates metabolism and bodily growth. It is also involved in increasing heart rate and adjusting urinary calcium excretion. Adequate amount of iodine and thryroxine promote healthy hair, skin, nails and teeth.

Symptoms Of Deficiency:

• Low blood pressure
• Chronic weakness and fatigue
• Development of alkalosis - low body acid level
• Electrolyte imbalance

Foods High In Iodine

The primary source of iodine is iodized salt. It can also be found in asparagus, garlic, lima beans, mushrooms, seafood, seaweed, soybeans, spinach, and turnip greens.

Ailments That Iodine Helps Against:

• Treats Goiter
• Prevents thyroid gland disorders
• Contributes to healthy programmed cell death
• Reduces symptoms of fibrocystic disease
• Improves poor hair, nail and teeth health

Side Effects/Toxicity

Side effects that occur from high intake of iodine are similar to the symptoms of iodine deficiency. Improper function of the thyroid gland and abnormal growth of the gland are the main side effects.