Iodine is a trace mineral required by the human body in tiny amounts, ranging from 150 to 200 micrograms per day. It plays an essential role in thyroid function, brain development, and metabolism regulation. However, consuming excessive iodine can lead to toxicity, resulting in several health problems. This article will discuss the symptoms of iodine overload and how to avoid it.
Dr. Eric Berg DC's Youtube video title, "The #1 Sign of Iodine Overload (TOXICITY)," explains that consuming too much iodine can be as severe as not consuming enough. Although it is more common for people to be iodine deficient, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of iodine overload.
When you consume too much iodine, the thyroid gland can start producing a lot of hydrogen peroxide, which is corrosive to the thyroid gland.
Symptoms of Iodine Overload
1. Highly Irritable Energy
One of the first signs of consuming too much iodine is a highly irritable energy that keeps you from sleeping. Too much iodine can activate the thyroid, which then activates too much sympathetic nervous system, leading to flight-or-fight mode. This symptom could also be due to low B1 or stress-related to adrenal overdrive.
2. Fast Pulse Rate
A fast pulse rate is another symptom of consuming excessive iodine, but it can also occur due to low potassium or low vitamin B1.
3. Heart Arrhythmias
Atrophib or heart arrhythmias in general could also be a symptom of excessive iodine consumption.
4. Heat Intolerance or Diarrhea
Heat intolerance or diarrhea can also be symptoms of iodine overload.
5. Hand Tremors
Consuming too much iodine could result in hand tremors, and your body temperature could increase without necessarily having an infection fever.
6. Bone Loss or Osteopenia
Iodine overload could potentially cause bone loss or osteopenia, a pre-osteoporosis situation.
7. Loss of Menstrual Cycle or Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating or the loss of menstrual cycle could also indicate that you have too much iodine.
Thyroid storm is another symptom that is rare but could potentially occur when you have too much iodine.
What Causes Iodine Overload?
Potassium iodide is an iodine supplement that people usually take as a protection against nuclear radiation exposure. However, it should not be taken on a regular basis as an iodine supplement. The recommended amount of iodine intake should be between 150 to 200 micrograms per day.
In Japan, people consume a large amount of iodine from seaweed, sea kelp, seafood, etc., which explains why Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune hypothyroid condition, is more common in Japan than any other place in the world. Hashimoto's disease is not caused by an iodine deficiency but can be aggravated or even triggered by taking too much iodine. When you consume too much iodine, the thyroid gland can start producing a lot of hydrogen peroxide, which is corrosive to the thyroid gland. Your body needs enough neutralizing factors to buffer hydrogen peroxide, such as selenium, which is also necessary to convert T4 to T3, the active form of thyroid hormone. Selenium is also a precursor to glutathione, which is the liver's antioxidant.
If you have a gut issue, consume a lot of gluten, or have low selenium, you could be at greater risk of getting Hashimoto's. Hypothyroidism could be a protective mechanism, some type of compensation from having too much iodine.
Sources of Iodine
It is essential to know the sources of iodine to prevent an iodine overdose. A few sources of iodine are:
Table salt: The most common source of iodine.
Other sources of iodine include certain medications like amiodarone, which is a medication used for heart rhythm problems, and iodine-containing contrast agents used in medical imaging. It's important to speak with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of these medications and procedures if you're concerned about your iodine intake.
Additionally, some cosmetic products like hair dyes and disinfectants may contain iodine. It's important to read labels and avoid using these products excessively to avoid overexposure.
In summary, while iodine is an essential nutrient needed in small amounts, overexposure can lead to toxicity and negative health effects. The most common symptoms of iodine excess include irritable energy, fast pulse rate, heart arrhythmias, heat intolerance, diarrhea, hand tremors, and bone loss. If you suspect that you may be experiencing iodine excess, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the source and adjust your intake accordingly.
To ensure that you're getting adequate iodine without overexposure, it's important to maintain a balanced and varied diet that includes natural sources of iodine like seafood, seaweed, and dairy products, as well as to limit your intake of iodized salt and iodine supplements. Additionally, incorporating foods that are rich in selenium, like Brazil nuts, eggs, and organ meats, can help support thyroid function and protect against Hashimoto's disease.
In conclusion, while iodine is an important nutrient for thyroid health, it's important to maintain a balance to avoid both deficiency and excess. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of iodine excess, monitoring your intake, and speaking with your healthcare provider, you can ensure that you're maintaining optimal health and avoiding negative health effects.