Getting Salty About Iodine Supplements
There are a number of essential vitamins and minerals that help the body function at its highest levels; but because of the many ways that the modern diet lacks key nutrients, it’s become increasingly common to suffer from nutrient deficiencies. Iodine, which is present in iodized table salt and many dairy products, has become a particular concern as people reduce their sodium intake and consume less dairy, resulting in an iodine deficiency that can really take a toll on their health. There are, of course, naturally a number of foods containing iodine; but imbalances in eating mean that those dietary sources aren’t being tapped. For that reason, iodine supplements have become a great resource for people who want to improve the state of their general wellness.
Salt Mining
The role that iodine plays is invaluable, and being deficient in this trace element can cause a number of issues and greatly reduce the body’s ability to produce thyroid hormones. Ultimately, these hormones regulate the metabolism and body temperature, help build muscle and control many other processes. As the body becomes deficient in iodine, those processes become impossible for it to perform. Unfortunately, as iodine-rich foods are often missing from our highly processed and on-the-run eating habits, the amount of natural iodine in our diet sinks to dangerous lows. To boost those levels, alternative iodine sources such as iodine supplements and health supplements containing high amounts of iodine may be your best option.
Get Salty
Of course, natural sources are the best. If you want to work some more iodine into your diet, here are a few foods to put on your list:
- Sea vegetables including seaweed, kelp, and wakame
- Cranberries or cranberry juice
- Dairy foods such as yogurt and cheese
- Beans, especially navy beans
- Potatoes
- Strawberries
- Fish and seafood
Want to get a handle on your numbers?
Here’s a peek at the amount of iodine you need every day:
- Birth to 12 months: 110–130 mcg
- Ages 1 to 8: 90 mcg
- Ages 9 to 13: 120 mcg
- Ages 14 to adult: 150 mcg
During pregnancy and lactation women will need to keep their intake higher, in the 220–290 mcg range, to support the healthy development of the fetus and after birth as a breastfeeding baby goes through its early stages of development.
At Everwell Specialty Pharmacy, we want our clients to live healthy, vibrant lives, so we offer iodine supplements made by brands known for the height of their quality.
Salt your future with greater health! Visit the specialists at Everwell Specialty Pharmacy and shop our market today!