Iodine
What Is It?
Iodine is a trace mineral, which the body only requires in very small amounts. Iodine has a pivotal role in the manufacture of thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine and two thirds of the body’s iodine is in the thyroid gland.
Over many generations iodine has been washed out of soils and into the ocean, meaning seaweed and fish acquire iodine from the ocean and are therefore the richest dietary source.
Why Do We Need It?
Iodine helps to ensure proper thyroid function. Thyroid hormones help to develop the nervous system by aiding the formulation of the myelin sheath of certain nerves in the central nervous system. These nerve sheaths form shortly before and after birth.
Iodine promotes proper growth, gives you more energy, improves mental clarity, and promotes healthy hair, nails, skin and teeth. It also raises the metabolic rate so helps to burn excess fat. Prevents accumulation of cholesterol and calms nerves.
Deficiency Symptoms
An iodine deficiency can cause brain damage in infants after the first trimester and children up to 3 years old. Iodine is critical for growth and development of the brain and central nervous system.
Deficiency may also be associated with the development of fibrocystic breast disease, fatigue, cretinism, weight gain, goiter, depression, slow mental reaction and it may impair the function of the immune system.
Where Can We Find It?
Sea vegetables such as: kelp, strawberries, onions, asparagus, dulse, garlic, mushrooms, sesame seeds, spinach, squash, swiss chard, turnip greens.
Be-Aware
Excess supplementation may cause or exacerbate acne vulgaris
Eating foods high in goitrogens can interfere with thyroid hormone action so if eating large quantities of cruciferous veggies ensure the diet contains adequate amounts of iodine (found in kelp and other seaweeds).
References
Nutritional Influences on Illness - Melvyn R Werbach, M.D.
The Worlds healthiest foods - George Matejlan
Readers Digest Guide to Vitamins Minerals & Supplements
Vitamins & Minerals DeMystified - Dr Steve Blake
The complete book of juicing - Michael T Murray N.D.
The Vitamin Bible - Earl Mindell
Nutritional Healing - Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
Nutrients A-Z - Dr Michael Sharon
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.