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The Iodine Group | |
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SPECIAL TOPICS
One of the ways that iodine appears to function is as an antioxidant.
Iodine exists in a variety of forms; for example, molecular iodine (I2), iodide (I-), iodate, T3, T4, etc. The form iodine exists in seems to be very important to the body. For example, Thrall has discovered that molecular iodine (I2) is absorbed differently than iodide (I-).
Most people are familiar with putting iodine on a cut or into polluted water to disinfect it. Iodine is also a major disinfectant in hospitals. How does iodine work as a disinfectant?
Iodine is a mineral that comes from our soils, oceans and other waters, and the atmosphere. Iodine is unequally distributed across our planet. Sometimes, the soils and waters are rich in iodine, sometimes they are deficient. Areas near the oceans tend to have more iodine than inland and mountainous areas. Glaciers and heavy rainfall can deplete iodine from soils. Iodine Maps are here.
Iodine has been important in the evolution of life on this planet, from the first single-celled algae to mammals today. The study of evolution helps us understand the many diverse functions of iodine today.
Iodine is found primarily in seaweed (especially kelp), coastal fish, and products from animals that have been consuming iodine. Plants will have iodine only if they are grown on iodine-rich soils.
Goitrogens interfere with the utilization of iodine. Among the best known goitrogens are the cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and radishes) and soy. Numerous chemicals have been identified as goitrogens, including the other halogens and certain toxic metals (e.g., mercury).
Iodine belongs to a chemical class of elements called "halogens", also containing fluorine, chlorine, and bromine. These other halogens react in similar ways to iodine and may affect many biological processes that depend on iodine. Fluorides, bromides, and perchlorates can all be problematic.
Iodine has 33 radioactive isotopes. The main iodine radioisotopes generated by human activities related to nuclear energy are I-131 and I-129. Supplemental iodine is protective with respect to radioactive iodine.
Iodine is related to numerous other nutrients, including selenium, iron, magnesium, vitamins, and proteins. When supplementing with iodine, pay attention to these nutrients, too.
Iodine Physiology is concerned with how iodine operates in the body. How is it absorbed into the body? What forms does it take? How does it get into the cells? What compounds does it form? What effects does it have on the body?
Iodine Tests and Measurements. How do you measure iodine in urine, blood, saliva, sweat, and feces? Are there ways to measure the effectiveness of the iodine transporters?
Abraham et al have found increased urinary excretion of lead, mercury, cadmium, and aluminum with iodine supplementation. Is iodine an effective chelator of heavy metals? If so, how does it work?
How much iodine is safe to take? The RDA for iodine is approximately 150 mcg per day, with the upper limit about 1000-2000 mcg (1-2 mg). On the other hand, the Orthoiodosupplementation perspective recommends 6-13 mg per day and stresses that, for most people, inorganic iodine is very safe even at doses of 50 mg per day.
Weston Price is well known for his studies of healthy diets before industrialization. What did he learn about iodine in these diets?
There are lots more special topics on The Iodine Group.
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