Iodine And The Thyroid Gland GWilkerson06/26/2015 Plant Based Nutrition
What is A Thyroid Gland? The thyroid gland is the biggest gland in the neck, situated in the anterior (front) neck below the skin and muscles. The sole function of the thyroid is to make thyroid hormone. This hormone has an effect on nearly all tissues of the body. The function of the thyroid is to regulate the body’s metabolism.
Thyroid Gland
Possible Thyroid Issues
Your Thyroid Gland Goiters ~ A thyroid goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland. Goiters are often removed for cosmetic reasons or when they compress other vital structures of the neck. Thyroid Cancer ~ Thyroid cancer is a fairly common malignancy, however, the vast majority have excellent long term survival. Solitary Thyroid Nodules ~ There are several characteristics of solitary nodules of the thyroid which make them suspicious for malignancy. Although as many as 50% of the population will have a nodule somewhere in their thyroid, the majority of these are benign.
Hyperthyroidism ~ Hyperthyroidism means too much thyroid hormone. Current methods used for treating a hyperthyroid patient are radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid drugs, or surgery. Each method has advantages and disadvantages and is selected for individual patients. Hypothyroidism ~ Hypothyroidism means too little thyroid hormone and is a common problem. Hypothyroidism is often present for a number of years before it is recognized and treated. Thyroiditis ~ Thyroiditis is an inflammatory process ongoing within the thyroid gland. Thyroiditis can present with a number of symptoms such as fever and pain. It can also present as subtle findings of hypo or hyper-thyroidism.
Why Iodine?
12 Uses For Iodine (And Other Tips, Research, and Resources) Potassium iodine has been used to help individuals exposed to radiation by reducing the accumulation of radioactive substances in the thyroid. Almost all sterilization products for the body have iodine. It is a wonderful wound cleaner that has been used to purify water in tablet or liquid form. Irritation of the throat area and thyroid gland is known as a “goiter”. Due to improper thyroid function, metabolism may slow down. Supplementing with nascent iodine may help ensure the smooth functioning of the thyroid gland. This in turn helps regulate the metabolism. A nascent iodine solution can be used to assist the body in fighting off harmful organisms. Using an iodine tonic as a throat gargle is also helpful for a cough. Research is currently being conducted on the role of iodine in breast health and overall shape and function. Similarly, iodine is a key mineral in mother’s milk, and is passed on to children for their proper growth and development. Much research confirms the link between a lack of iodine and ovarian problems, such as cysts, and reproductive ability. Children can suffer from mental illness and disabilities due to a lack of iodine. It is important that mothers supplement with this micronutrient as a preventative measure. Iodine douches have been used to reduce vaginal irritation, itching and discharge associated with chronic yeast imbalances. Iodine is commonly used as a treatment for a number of different eye conditions. It is also a natural protectant against UVB radiation.
Iodine is a common aid for skin conditions, such as acne, as well as hair loss. The healthy development of skin, teeth, nails and bone are all related to normal iodine levels. Iodine is just as important as vitamin C in terms of antioxidant activity. Specifically, it is a strong antioxidant for the blood.
Iodine Sources The thyroid gland synthesizes thyroid hormones and iodine is an essential trace mineral that is crucial for the thyroid to function properly. Eating foods rich in iodine ensures the thyroid is able to manage metabolism, detoxification, growth and development.
klp is a major source of iodine The ocean hosts the largest storehouse of iodine foods, including Kelp, Arame, Hiziki, Kombu, and Wakame. Kelp has the highest amount of iodine of any food on the planet and just one serving offers 4 times the daily minimum requirement. Cranberries are another great source of iodine. A natural probiotic, yogurt is an excellent iodine food. Many beans are a great food source of iodine and organic navy beans may top the list. Organic strawberries packs up to 10% of your daily iodine needs in just a single serving. Organic potatoes are an easy addition to most meals. They are one of the richest sources of iodine in the vegetable kingdom. Egg and dairy products can also be good sources. If you’re not a fan of the iodine foods listed above, then you can always take an iodine supplement.
Conclusion Iodine is very important for our health. Maybe more of us should be more attentive to obtaining sufficient quantities of it through our diets. I believe that almost all of our nutrients are best acquired by consuming a Whole Food, Plant-Based diet. Very few would be recommended through supplementation. Iodine may be one if the situation calls for it.
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