Vitamins & Herbs

Iodine: 7 powerful benefits for energy and thyroid function

What is iodine?

Iodine is a trace element found in our bodies only in small amounts, but it is indispensable. It supports the production of thyroid hormones, which provide:

  • healthy growth
    - the development of the nervous system
    - a properly functioning metabolism

When deficient, the thyroid gland works more slowly, which can lead to fatigue, weight gain and coldness. In children, a severe deficiency can even cause growth retardation and learning difficulties.

What is iodine in?

In the Netherlands, food naturally contains little iodine. Therefore, it is often added to salt and bread.

Naturally contained in iodine include:

  • seafood (such as cod, salmon and mackerel)
    - eggs
    - dairy products
    - seaweed

👉 Note that organic bread or home-baked bread often does not contain any added iodine because baker's salt is not required.

Health effects

Iodine has a wide range of effects in the body. It:

  • Supports the production of thyroid hormones
    - Helps with normal growth in children
    - Contributes to concentration, memory and energy levels
    - Is good for skin and metabolism

A healthy thyroid means that your energy system, nervous system and metabolism function smoothly.

Shortage and excess

You often don't notice a deficiency for years because the thyroid gland builds up a supply. Possible symptoms are:

  • sluggishness and constipation
    - weight gain
    - a swollen thyroid gland (goiter or goiter)

Excessive intake can disrupt the thyroid gland. This occurs especially with excessive use of seaweed or kelp tablets. This is why kelp supplements are not recommended: the amount of iodine varies greatly and can easily be too high.

Supplements and iodine tablets

For vegetarians, vegans or people who eat little bread or iodized salt, a supplement may be helpful. Often this comes from kelp.

In addition, there are iodine tablets intended only in the event of a nuclear disaster to block exposure to radioactive iodine. So this has nothing to do with daily diet or health.

Spiritual meaning ✨

In spiritual traditions, iodine is associated with the throat chakra, which symbolizes communication and self-expression.
- A healthy balance of iodine supports clear speech and daring to express one's truth.
- A deficit is sometimes seen as a blockage, which can make it difficult for someone to express themselves or be heard.

Voedingsmiddelen rijk aan jodium, zoals zeewier, vis, eieren en zuivel op houten ondergrond.

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