Iodine Function in the Thyroid
Thyroid
The thyroid uses the trace mineral iodine to create thyroid hormones, which are essential for growth, development, and metabolism.
The thyroid is a little gland in the neck that resembles a butterfly and is essential to controlling many body processes. Iodine is one component that is necessary for it to operate properly. The thyroid uses the trace mineral iodine to create thyroid hormones, which are essential for growth, development, and metabolism. Thyroid dysfunction can result from an iodine imbalance, even though it’s essential for thyroid health.
Iodine And Thyroid Hormone Production
“The thyroid gland synthesises two main hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), both of which contain iodine, which is in turn obtained through the diet-primarily from iodized salt, seafood, dairy products, and certain vegetables,” stated Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor, Chief of Endocrinology at Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram, in reference to this. Iodine is taken up by the thyroid from the bloodstream and added to the composition of these hormones.”
Thyroid Dysfunction Due To Iodine Deficiency
Thyroid dysfunction is primarily caused by iodine deficiency globally. The thyroid is unable to generate enough thyroid hormones when the body does not contain enough iodine. Hypothyroidism is a disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, such as weight gain, lethargy, cold intolerance, and cognitive decline. Severe iodine shortage during pregnancy may cause cretinism, a disorder marked by stunted physical growth and intellectual impairments in the fetus.
Iodine Excess And Thyroid Dysfunction
Iodine overabundance can cause thyroid dysfunction, but iodine shortage is still a serious risk. The thyroid has a sensitive equilibrium, and an excess of iodine can cause hyperthyroidism, an overproduction of thyroid hormones by the gland. This may result in symptoms like tremors, anxiety, fast heartbeat, and weight loss.
Iodine-Induced Thyroid Disorders
According to Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor, some groups are more susceptible to thyroid diseases brought on by iodine. For example, people who already have thyroid issues (autoimmune thyroiditis, for example) may be more vulnerable to the negative consequences of too much iodine. Iodine-containing drugs and supplements can also increase the risk of thyroid dysfunction brought on by iodine.”
The Importance Of Iodine Monitoring
It is imperative to monitor iodine levels due to its critical role in thyroid function. Medical practitioners can use blood and urine testing to determine a patient’s iodine status. A population’s iodine levels can help direct public health initiatives like dietary guidelines or iodine supplementation programs.
Regarding this, Connect & Heal’s Dr. Vinodh Kumar S, MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), Consultant Physician, and Diabetologist, stated, “The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adults is 1.5 mg per day; however, during pregnancy, this requirement increases to 2.5 mg for pregnant females and even further increases to 2.9 mg during breastfeeding.” A daily dosage of up to 1.5 mg is deemed safe for the majority of people. Overindulgence in iodized salt, drinking water, iodine-rich milk, some seaweeds, and iodine-containing nutritional supplements can lead to an excess of iodine. Over 1.5 milligrams consumed daily may be dangerous and could result in acute or chronic poisoning.
Ayurveda And Hypothyroidism
An age-old medicine system called Ayurveda is beneficial for a number of metabolic, lifestyle-related, and autoimmune disorders. objective this traditional Indian medicine is to keep the body’s energies, or doshas, in balance in order to preserve overall health.
Speaking on this topic, Dr. Manoj Kutteri, the CEO and Medical Director of Atmantan Wellness Centre, stated: “In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism is often associated with an imbalance in the “Kapha” dosha, which represents the components of earth and water. The throat chakra is considered to be a part of the Kapha dosha, and diseases related to the thyroid gland might affect it. The mainstay of Ayurvedic treatment for hypothyroidism is mainly dietary modifications, herbal medicines, and lifestyle improvements.”
The following Ayurveda concepts could be taken into account for treating Hypothyroidism as suggested by Dr. Kutteri:
Diet & Nutrition: Eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet is highly recommended by Ayurveda. Include a variety of fruits, healthful grains, lean meats, and fresh veggies in your meals. Warm, cooked foods are vital to a diet that manages hypothyroidism because they facilitate metabolism and digestion. Including organic spices like black pepper, ginger, and turmeric enhances the digestive system’s heat. Seaweed and iodized salt are two examples of foods high in iodine that may be beneficial because iodine is necessary for thyroid function. Reducing the amount of cold or raw food ingested and prioritizing a variety of veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins will help you maintain balance.
Herbs and Spices: Ayurveda recommends a variety of herbs and spices to treat hypothyroidism. We like to refer to the adaptogenic herb ashwagandha as “Nature’s Multitasker,” as it is believed to improve thyroid function and help balance stress hormones. Triphala, a concoction of three fruits (haritaki, bibhitaki, and amalaki), improves overall health and facilitates digestion and excretion. Guggul, with its anti-inflammatory properties, is often used to boost metabolism and stimulate thyroid function. The amount of curcumin present in turmeric may also have anti-inflammatory benefits that enhance thyroid function. Spices that improve digestion and metabolism, such as ginger, cumin, and black pepper, can help balance the Kapha dosha, which is associated with an underactive thyroid.
Yoga and Mindfulness: As a supportive therapy for individuals with hypothyroidism, yoga is commonly recommended in the Ayurvedic approach to treating thyroid diseases. Certain yoga poses help balance and stimulate the thyroid gland. Supporting thyroid function, the Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Matsyasana (Fish Pose) directly target the throat region. These poses help regulate thyroid function by boosting blood flow to the thyroid. For people with hypothyroidism, the practices of alternate nostril breathing (Nadishodhana pranayama) and victorious breathing (Ujjayi pranayama) help boost body temperature, energy, and metabolism. Through the use of these poses and breathing exercises, regular yoga practice addresses the physical and energetic aspects of thyroid function, hence improving overall health.
