Frequently Asked Questions about Iodine Deficiency

Having the correct Iodine levels in the body is a critical part of one’s health on a day to day basis. Which is why Iodine deficiency is such a problematic thing for people. A deficiency throws off a number of different parts of their lives and is something they have to pay attention to on a regular basis. Major health problems aren’t immediately evident when it comes to Iodine levels. However, the more one knows about how to deal with Iodine deficiency and the importance of proper amounts of iodine in the body, the better off they will be.

Why Does Iodine Deficiency Effects Much of the Western World?

Believe it or not, many of the people in western countries have an Iodine deficiency. There are a number of reasons for this, but much of it comes from the fact that so many people eat so much processed food. Examples include fast food and other foods that aren’t whole or organic.

Is Iodine Salt a Good Source of Iodine to Deal with Iodine Deficiency?

This seems to be a straightforward answer — it should, right? And it has been iodized to help deal with iodine deficiency, but that doesn’t mean it’s healthy to consume. That’s because it has been iodized using a whole slew of other chemicals, like bleach, which you will now be putting into your body and is more or less terrible for you.

Have Cancers Been Linked to Iodine Deficiency?

Yes. Among the many other health problems that are ultimately caused by Iodine deficiency. The main one has been breast cancer. There’s no direct link to say that taking iodine supplements will help stave off cancer. However, a direct link has been found between breast cancer and thyroid disorders. Both the breast and thyroid require iodine to function correctly and countries that have higher iodine-based diets have lower rates of breast cancer in women.

What Natural Foods Can Be Eaten to Help with Iodine Deficiency?

Numerous natural foods can be eaten to help deal with iodine deficiency. These include fish, like cod and shellfish, and sea vegetables like seaweed, and wakame. All of which are rich in iodine for obvious reasons due to their life in the salt-rich ocean. Other good iodine sources include eggs, organic milk, leafy greens, and prunes.

Are Iodine Allergies Caused by Iodine?

No. Most of the things that are referred to as iodine allergies are actually just people reacting to iodine-based parts of x-ray or CT scan treatments in doctor’s offices. The truth is, there is no proof anyone can even be allergic to this vital nutrient. And iodine reactions to seafood for example, isn’t a reaction to iodine but rather proteins in the seafood. So don’t use this as a reason not to try and cure your iodine deficiency through your diet.

Does an Iodine Deficiency Really Lead to Slower Development in Babies?

Yes. Studies have shown that mothers with Iodine deficiencies are more likely to have problems with pregnancies. Iodine is vital for a developing fetus. A lack of it can lead to a whole host of problems when the baby is born. Even iodine supplements, once the baby is born, can’t counteract the iodine deficiency in utero. This means it is critical for expecting mothers to have enough of this vital nutrient.

What is the Best Supplement for Iodine Deficiency?

While a healthy diet is ideal for iodine deficiency with iodine-rich foods, some supplements can help deal with this problem more immediately. The best of these supplements is what is known as atomic Iodine. This delivers Iodine to the body in atomic form, the same form that is created by the thyroid for hormone creation. This allows the body to maximize its iodine creation.

What are other Iodine Supplement Benefits?

Beyond helping relieve iodine deficiency, taking iodine supplements have a number of other benefits for those who take them on a regular basis. Arguably the most useful aspect of iodine supplements is that it kills harmful organisms inside and outside the body. Another added benefit is that it protects the thyroid from radiation. Though this is only necessary if you are exposed to a lot of radiation.

Does Pregnancy Make Iodine Deficiency Worse?

Yes. Pregnancy will exacerbate an iodine deficiency if one already exists in a woman. Even women who don’t have iodine deficiencies before they are pregnant can become iodine deficient after they are pregnant. Again, in short, regular consumption of iodine is critical for pregnant women. This means as soon as a woman finds out she is pregnant, this should be the most important nutrient she consumes.

Do Iodine Supplements Really Help Detoxify the Body?

Yes. Another benefit of Iodine supplements beyond helping with Iodine deficiency is that they help to detoxify the body. High levels of Iodine help remove chlorine, bromine, and fluoride in the body, which will effect the thyroid’s function. These toxins will quickly pass out of the body rather than accumulate over time.