Iodine
Benefits of Iodine
- Thyroid function
- Energy
- Cognitive function
- Form: Potassium Iodide
- Food source: Iodine-fortified plant milks, iodised salt and seaweed (the iodine content of seaweed varies widely).
What is Iodine?
Iodine is an essential mineral. Most iodine in the UK diet comes from dairy and seafood, and not all plant milks are fortified with it, so vegans need to think about where theirs comes from. Many popular meal replacement and protein shakes don't include it either.
What does Iodine do?
Iodine contributes to the normal production of thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function. It also contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal cognitive function, normal functioning of the nervous system and the maintenance of normal skin.
Iodine is used directly in making thyroid hormones. The thyroid makes the hormone T4, and some T4 is then converted around the body, including in the liver, into T3, the more active form. This conversion relies on enzymes that need selenium. Selenium contributes to normal thyroid function. Thyroid hormones are involved in our metabolic rate, energy levels, digestive system and heart, as well as a range of other processes and organs.
The body's need for iodine increases during pregnancy. Research has looked at iodine and thyroid hormones during pregnancy and iodine intake before and during pregnancy.
You may also enjoy reading 'Vitamins for an underactive thyroid', 'Best foods for thyroid health', 'Nutritionist's tips for an underactive thyroid' and 'Stevia, Artificial Sweeteners & Insulin Resistance'. Discover 'A nutritionist recommended pregnancy diet guide'.
L-Glycine
L-Glycine is an amino acid that has a calming and regenerative effect, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, enhancing sleep quality, and reducing feelings of tiredness during the day.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral for the immune system. It also helps maintain healthy hair and nails and is necessary for the use of Iodine in thyroid hormone function.
Vitamin E
One of Vitamin E’s main benefits is that it acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants combat harmful ‘free radicals’ (unstable molecules), helping prevent damage to cell membranes.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for the normal functioning of our immune system, and for the health of our hair and skin. Infections, hair loss and white marks on nails are among the signs of a deficiency.
Folate
Folate is required in the synthesis of DNA and the replication of new cells. It is needed in during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects in the foetus.
Kelp
Kelp is packed with a range of important vitamins and minerals. Most significantly, Kelp is a great source of Iodine. Our bodies use Iodine for the production of thyroid hormones.
L-Proline
L-Proline is a unique, skin-loving amino acid that is an essential component of collagen production.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
One of the most clinically trialled bacteria, Acidophilus is a gut-friendly bacteria helping the digestive system break down sugars, such as lactose into lactic acid.
