Assessing Iodine Levels and Factors Affecting Deficiency

Today, I want to cover some interesting information on iodine that goes way beyond what it does for the thyroid. Most of your iodine is stored in your thyroid. However, iodine is important for many other organs. The RDAs for iodine in the US are 150 mcg. But, in Japan, on average, people consume 1000 to 3000 mcg of iodine daily. They also have fewer problems associated with iodine deficiency than we do in the US. That being said, excess iodine can create just as many problems as a deficiency in iodine. I think it’s most beneficial to get the iodine you need from food. Shellfish and sea kelp are rich in iodine. But there is also iodine in eggs, dairy, iodized salt, and sea salt. Unless you consume foods rich in iodine, either from the sea or from vegetables grown on the coastline, chances are you’re not getting enough iodine in your diet. Iodine may help with various conditions, including: • Estrogen dominance • Heavy periods • Fibrocystic breasts • Ovarian cysts • Endometriosis • Fibroids • Prostate enlargement • PCOS • Cystic acne • TB • Croup • Asthma • Toenail fungus • Warts and skin tags • Thyroid conditions • Weight gain • Brain fog • Feeling cold (excessively) • Dry skin and hair • Constipation • Depression Top causes of iodine deficiency: • Consuming excessive amounts of raw cruciferous vegetables • Consuming millet, soy, or sweet potatoes • The vegan diet • Pregnancy and lactation • Low-salt diets • Fluoride • Bromide • Perchlorate in water • Nitrates