Iodine and weight loss may be something that most people with hypothyroidism are not aware of. Iodine makes up a tiny part of the body, yet is essential for proper function of the thyroid gland and hormone production. When all is in correct balance, iodine can lead to regular weight loss.
When the thyroid is underactive, it creates a condition called hypothyroidism. People with this condition often feel side effects like weight gain, fatigue, irritability, and brittle nails. The metabolism slows down and ends up burning fewer calories than normal. A major cause of this condition is from a lack of proper iodine levels.
Many people do not consume the right amount of iodine through diet alone. Many times, people are in need of iodine supplements. One place that a supplement of this kind gets its potency is from the kelp plant. Kelp naturally contains iodine and is high in a multitude of beneficial nutrients. It normalizes the thyroid. Therefore, people will be able to both gain and lose weight by consuming kelp. No matter what supplement a person uses, they must make sure to have the proper amount of vitamin A. Without this vitamin, the thyroid cannot make the hormones needed to absorb the iodine.
It is also wise to increase iodine intake through natural means. It is imperative to consult a physician before beginning any new treatment since iodine supplements may contain too much of the substance and swing a person into the opposite direction, developing hyperthyroidism, which is just as dangerous.
For people with hypothyroidism, getting the appropriate amount of iodine should work toward getting back near a normal weight. However, it is wise to achieve long lasting results through proper diet and exercise.
Using iodine as a weight loss tool will only be effective for those who suffer from an underactive thyroid. For healthy people, trying to use iodine to lose weight may be dangerous. It may lead to an overdose which brings symptoms of stomach pain, confusion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If a person suspects that they are having problems with their thyroid, they need to visit a doctor. The doctor can run tests and determine the best solution if there is a problem. They will also be able to give more information about iodine and weight loss.