Question: What does iodine do in the body?
Dr. Brownstein’s Answer:
Iodine is the element necessary for the production of thyroid hormone, but it is present in every cell in the body. Without iodine, life is not possible.
Iodine is not only necessary for the production thyroid hormone, it is responsible for the production of all other hormones. Adequate iodine levels are necessary for proper immune system function. Iodine contains potent antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Iodine is also effective for treating fibrocystic breasts and ovarian cysts.
Iodine deficiency disorder can result in mental retardation, goiter, increased child and infant mortality, infertility, and socioeconomic decline. Iodine deficiency disorder is the most common preventable form of mental retardation known. Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) is also related to iodine deficiency.
Conversely, too much iodine can be a problem. In rare cases, excess iodine has been associated with hyperthyroid symptoms.
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