Mainly thought of as a topical antiseptic used to clean childhood cuts and grazes, the real value of Iodine lies in its role in regulating metabolism.
Iodine is essential for the production of thyroxine and tri-iodothyronine. These hormones control the metabolic rate, the conversion of food and fat stores into energy and the use of oxygen by every cell in the body.
The thyroid is an important part of the immune system, among its many other functions, it regulates body temperature and causes our immune system to elevate this to destroy germs, viruses and even tumour tissue. The thyroid helps to restore health if it is supplied with Iodine to manufacture thyroxin.
Whilst Iodine deficiency in the UK is rare, due to the introduction of iodised table salt, it can still be a problem for people consuming a low salt, low iodine-rich diet or therapy. Some of the symptoms that may appear due to lack of iodine are, tiredness, lack of energy, muscle weakness, enlarged thyroid and susceptibility to the cold.
Iodine can be found in saltwater fish, iodised salt and sea vegetation.
If you have a diagnosed thyroid condition please consult your doctor before taking an iodine supplement.
