It’s time to revise our limited and obsolete notions about the role and the quantity of iodine needed for optimal body function. Iodine supplements have become more popular lately due to the realization that ingestion of nutrients involves comprehending both its digestion, and its bioactivity once in the body. Iodine, like vitamin C is not naturally generated or retained within the system. And like that vitamin, iodine is readily eliminated or displaced from the system, so it may not be utilized well before its removal. Supplementation may be required in order to optimal amounts remain bio active to benefit the thyroid and other systems.

An iodine deficiency, in other words, is not going to be resolved by a nutrient depleted food supply, or by use of iodized salt. Many such salts also contain chloride, bromide or other agents that are known to aid in displacing iodine from the body, meaning its presence in salt becomes a bit of a wash. Taking extra salt is also not recommended for those suffering from possible or actual high blood pressure. Fluoride is also known to his place iodine, so taking in large amounts of water may be contributing to iodine deficiency. The best solution appears to be iodine supplements, may store the amount of bio active iodine optimal thyroid functioning.

Consumers should choose iodine made by a pharmaceutical GMP compliant manufacturing source. This assures safety and quality behind the making of the product. Use of iodine for emergency purposes, such as nuclear radiation situations, should be properly reserved as the last resort, and those taking iodine saved for that contingency should realize that their ‘reserve stash’ of iodine may have expired for the disaster scenario actually happens. Consumers should also be aware that excess iodine can cause hyperthyroidism and problems stemming from excessively stimulating the thyroid glands.

For those using food sources to get a proper intake of the nutrient, appropriate choices are fish, fish oil, condensed milk, some breads, cod, sea weeds and sea kelp, most sea foods and eggs. Should these sources not be enough, sensible use of iodine supplements can help deliver the remaining bio active iodine needed to be helpful to best the thyroid in regulating the metabolism. If consumers are truly concerned about their iodine levels, a preliminary conversation about the use of supplementation with their physician is recommended