Iodine is a crucial trace mineral that’s necessary for optimal health

Iodine is one of nature’s most important trace minerals for human health, but it’s also one of the most frequently overlooked. Though iodine deficiency was once rare in North America, where we typically enjoy a wealth of healthy foods, it’s now a growing problem across the planet. Today, up to one-third of the world’s population is at risk of iodine deficiency. (Disclaimer: This article contains in-house links to related iodine products that help support our publishing operations.)

Because your body can’t produce iodine on its own, you need to acquire it through your diet. Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more difficult, as a growing number of people are relying on a diet of processed food that lacks iodine.

Some experts also believe that we’re getting less iodine today because of modern industrial farming practices which, along with environmental contaminants, tend to eliminate naturally occurring minerals from the soil – and from much of our produce. People who live in countries with very little iodine in their soil are most at risk of iodine deficiency. Vegans and vegetarians also tend not to have a lot of iodine in their diets. (Related: Iodine deficiency is on the rise in industrialized countries.)

Since iodine supports healthy thyroid function, if you don’t get enough iodine in your diet, your thyroid would have to work even harder to synthesize hormones, resulting in unnecessary stress. A deficiency in iodine can manifest itself in many ways, most notably sluggishness or fatigue, unexpected weight gain, sensitivity to temperature changes, dry, coarse, or flaky skin, swelling in the neck, general weakness, hair loss, changes in heart rate, trouble learning or remembering, poor perception levels, loss of energy, and constipation.

Health benefits of iodine

When this trace mineral is supplemented as directed, iodine may offer many health benefits.

Supports healthy thyroid function

Iodine plays a crucial role in supporting the healthy function of your thyroid, so your body needs a certain amount of this essential mineral every day to work normally.

Supports healthy metabolism

Metabolism is one of the key functions of the thyroid gland. Since iodine is necessary for healthy thyroid function, you can support a healthy metabolism by supplementing with nascent iodine.

Maintains healthy energy levels

Iodine plays a vital role in the efficient use of calories and the transformation of food into usable energy. Studies show that iodine intake is linked to improved energy levels among those who are iodine deficient.

Promotes the growth of healthy skin, teeth, and hair

Iodine is an important element for the formation of healthy and glowing skin. It also supports the growth of healthy hair.

Supports a healthy immune system

Iodine can help scavenge free radicals and protect your cells from oxidative stress. It can also boost your immunity by promoting the activity of other antioxidants in your body.

Supports optimal health during pregnancy

Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can have even more serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. Pregnant women need sufficient amounts of iodine for their well-being and to ensure the healthy development of their babies.

For healthy adults, the recommended daily intake for iodine is 150 mcg per day. Health Ranger Select Nascent Iodine delivers 400 mcg of elemental iodine per 1-drop serving, providing an incredibly easy way for you to get your daily iodine intake. While all sources of dietary iodine are beneficial, Health Ranger’s Nascent Iodine has the smallest drops and lowest surface tension of any iodine product we’ve tested so far. In liquids, lower surface tension is generally equated with easier assimilation.

NOTE: Always consult with your physician or nutritional adviser on how to best optimize your overall iodine intake. If you frequently eat seaweed, you may not need iodine supplementation, since iodine is naturally occurring in seaweed.

Sources include:

Healthline.com

HealthRangerStore.com