Iodine is probably one of the more unknown minerals that people know and care about. Not much attention has been put into iodine and its benefits. When people supplement their diets with iodine, it is usually because of iodine deficiency and to improve thyroid function.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is the lack of thyroid hormones in the body because of a problem with the thyroid glands. The production of hormones is impeded by many causes. But the most common of all the causes is iodine deficiency.

When an individual has been inflicted with a serious case of hypothyroidism, the person suffers from poor muscle tension, fatigue, depression, water retention, weight gain and an extreme amount of fat storage in the area below the armpits. Some people also see an excessive amount of fat stored in the lower back as well. Medication is prescribed by doctors and victims of hypothyroidism must take them in regularity.

Although self-diagnosis is not advisable to many, there are certain ways to ‘cure’ and prevent hypothyroidism. Eating foods that are rich in iodine and supplementation by reputable brands can help immensely.

Mental Retardation

Studies have shown that a lack of deficiency is one of the major causes of mental retardation. That’s right! Lack of iodine in the body can cause gradual retardation. Some say it can reduce IQ points from 5 points to as much as 15 points. The complications normally occur when the child is in the mother’s womb. That is why a lot of pregnant women take iodine supplements.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is now more prevalent than it was a decade ago. This was because people in the past consume more iodine than the people now. Women now suffer a 1 to 7 risk of having breast cancer.

It is widely believed by the masses that going through an iodine supplementation program can treat breast cancer. Although there have been no conclusive evidence to prove that iodine deficiency has any connection to breast cancer, many people have found this to be true.

Benefits of Iodine

By consuming enough iodine by eating the right foods and taking supplements to aid it, the above diseases and symptoms can be avoided. It may seem contradictory but taking too much iodine is detrimental to your health. Diseases such as hyperthyroidism can occur when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone.

An individual should always consider altering their nutrition before introducing supplements in their diets. The same rule applies to iodine. Foods such as salt, fish, vegetables, cheddar cheese, fish oils and sea food are rich in iodine and any of them should be increased in consumption before taking supplements. Breast cancer patients typically take about 50 grams of iodine to treat their cancer. As such, a dose of about 30 grams should suffice for most individuals.

The benefits of iodine are not so much of extra advantages as much it is of prevention. By taking careful steps in changing your diet and consuming the right supplements, you can be sure to be of the best of health.

Source:

• World Health Organization